Spokesman Wheeling High School 900 S. Elmhurst Rd. Wheeling, Ill. 60090 <www.wheelingspokesman.com>Volume 48 Issue 6 March 2, 2012

whs

Orchesis showcase pg 9

Girls basketball at Sectionals pg 11

indexnews 1-2forum 3feature 4-5focus 6-7la voz 8a&e 9-10sports 11-12

onlineNews Students pack food

Feature Italian night photos

A&E Orchesis photo slideshow

During second period yoga class, Natalie Arana, junior, follows Diane Rawlinson, dance instructor, to proceed into the next yoga pose. “I like to give new things a try, like doing yoga. I’ve done dance since freshman year, so it’s good to give new things a try,” Arana said.

Rawlinson starts yoga pilot class to encourage relaxation

At the beginning of second semester, Diane Rawlinson, dance instructor, started a new yoga class in place of P.E. classes or study halls.

“This is mostly a pilot class; we wanted to see how it would work,” Ms. Rawlinson said. “This is my first time trying a straight yoga curriculum, and I’m super excited for it.”

Unlike Ms. Rawlinson’s regular dance classes, which has only one yoga unit per term, this class will focus only on yoga.

Students who want to take yoga must have a free period or P.E period to switch into yoga. The class still has workout days where the students have to swim,

run or do aerobics, but they only do so twice a week.

“I joined because I felt I needed a more relaxing gym class,” Cailey, Markiewicz, junior, said.

According to Ms. Rawlinson, students try to relieve their stress by listening to music, watching T.V, playing video games and texting. Yoga can help relieve the stress that s t u d e n t s k e e p bui ld ing up inside of them.

“Being h i g h schoolers, we all have busy schedules and lots of homework, so it’s nice to take a little bit of time out of our days to focus on relaxing our minds,” Taylor

Vasey, junior, said.Yoga also helps prevent

injuries by improving one’s flexibility and strength.

“(I like) the hip openers because it improves your flexibility,” Jennifer Garcia, senior, said.

Ms. Rawlinson has taught yoga for 15 years and recommends any student to take the class.

“Ms. Rawlinson has been s t u d y i n g yoga for a w h i l e now, and she really k n o w s what she is doing,” Vasey said.

“She really pays attention to each of our skills and limits and manipulates or modifies the poses to allow each to take part and have fun.”

Solinna ChongForum Editor

Gaby Najera Associate Editor

“My favorite part of the class is when we use the yoga blankets. It relaxes your body.”“

Jessica Komperdajunior”

For the first time WHS will host the “Robot Rumble,” where students will compete against other District 214 schools by fighting against their robots.

The competition and scoring will take place from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on March 9. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on March 10, the different schools will re-challenge each other to fight with their individual robots for entertainment purposes. A double-elimination process will be used to choose the finalists.

“(It takes) hard work, sweat, blood and tears. It’s a lot of stress and frustration; it’s (robot-making process) very difficult even for professionals,” Michael Geist, engineering instructor, said.

Students will have the opportunity to attend this event during their free periods in the field house at no cost, and concessions will be available.

Hersey High school hosted this event for the past two years, but this year and next year, WHS will host it. WHS has participated in this event for three years.

“I expect a lot of excitement, having it here puts more stress, but good stress; I think it’s the unknown that I’m excited about,” Marc Sears, career and technology education instructor, said.

According to Haley Singer, sophomore, she had fun during the process of preparing

for the Robot Rumble.The process students and teachers go

through in order to make the robot starts by brainstorming any ideas about the weapons and materials to use. After this, the BattleBots participants eliminate ineffective models, designs and other incompatible ideas that may have restrictions because of the machinery.

“Taking them (students) to the design process engineers go through gives them real life application of that process in the high school level,” Yogesh Karwal, senior, said.

Additionally, the students make 3-D computer sketches, and everyone continues to contribute to whatever they can.

WHS will have four different teams and four robots that will compete in the event: Freddy, Pebbles, Bam Bam and Barney. The students have already assembled all the robots’ parts. They will finish the last minute details, such as final observations, testings, tunings and the calibration of the controls.

“(We hope) that everybody is safe and has a lot of fun. There is usually fire, things that explode, sharp spinning objects; it’s supervised,” Mr. Geist said. “Safety is our primary concern.”

According to Javier Tamayo, junior, WHS has won matches but never the competition.

“All I expect is to have fun and gain experience. It’d be nice to win, but does it matter? Not really,” Tamayo said.

WHS hosts Robot Rumble for first time

Photos by Frida Valdes

Frida ValdesAsst. News Editor

Above: Haley Singer, sophomore, works with Michael Geist, engineering instructor, to test the control for the battle bot. They program and combine the control to the battle bot, and adjust the speeds of the motors.Top Left: Giovanni Gomez, senior, looks for bolts and washers for his battle bot. On BattleBots, each participant can choose which team they want to work on. The WHS BattleBots team has four bots, with a team working on each. “The element of surprise is what keeps it (competition) exciting,” Giovanni Gomez, senior, said.

2NewsMarch 2, 2012Spokesman

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Debate team continued their streak of placing in the state competition, which took place Feb. 10 at Northern Illinois University. The varsity team placed second with a total of 79.5 out of a possible 96 points.

WHS had won first place for the past five years and had earned 10 firsts since 1997. Since WHS began winning, no other school has won more than once. This year, Stevenson High School earned first place with a 0.3 point difference, with “the best team they have had in years,” according to Mike Burke, English teacher and debate coach.

“As far as our preparation, as far as our performance, there was nothing left undone,” Mike Hurley, English teacher and head debate coach, said.

Christina Lorey, senior, received 22 points out of a possible 24, the highest score received out of all varsity debaters that competed. Omar Joya,

junior, earned the second best WHS score with 21 points.

“Since we won our freshman, sophomore and junior years, it was disappointing that for our senior year we couldn’t be the ones with the blue medals around our necks,” Lorey said.

Joya, the only junior on the varsity team, has participated in debate for three years.

“I practiced so much and felt so prepared, so it (results) fit my efforts,” Joya said.

Upon arriving, the debaters learned of an extended time limit so more students would have an opportunity to speak. According to Mr. Hurley, this change “came out of the blue.” With this change, Stevenson had the opportunity to include an extra speech, which brought them over the top.

Debate will also compete in the National Forensic League (NFL), which leads to Nationals, and Illinois High School Association (IHSA) competitions.

Debate places second at state

Math team qualifies for stateAfter competing at regionals, math team

placed second, qualifying for state for the first time since 2009.

“I feel pretty confident. We’ve been working hard all year,” Sam Sungvoom, senior and math team captain, said.

Regionals took place on Feb. 25 at North Park University. David Modlin, sophomore, and Wade Degnett and Sung Yeo, freshman, received individual medals. The state competition will take place on May 5 at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champagne.

“To be the best team in the division makes us feel proud of our school, and our math teachers did a good job at teaching math,” Andrew Jensen, senior, said.

Even though the entire team had not qualified since 2009, in previous years, individual members have qualified for state.

In addition, at the district competition on Feb. 2, which WHS hosted, WHS placed first place in the district.

“I was very pleased with the outcome. I expected us to win because we’ve been having a very good season so far,” Victor Gonzalez, math teacher and math team coach, said.

Math team also competed on Feb. 29 at the conference at Evanston. Results were not available by press time.

“I was very excited to see that our students won, and I was hoping that they would do well. They’ve been competing at a high level all year,” Mariola Sobol, math teacher and math team coach, said.

LOGICVILLE<www.logicville.com>

Educational math and logic puzzles

Like Wheeling Spokesman online on Facebook to get access to more news.

Follow Spokesman @WHSSpokesman to get more updated news.

NASA named Lisa Del Muro, science teacher, an “Agent of Change” for STEM education.

Interact with Africa will do food packing on March 10. Walk Through Africa takes place April 9-12.

Jazz Band 1 won Grand Champion at Jazz in the Meadows, which took place on Feb. 25 at Rolling Meadows High School.

Sophomore class board will host the prom fashion show on March 16.

WHS presented on Feb. 9 at the launching of the Illinois Pathways Initiative in Bloomington, Ill. The initiative helps residents get better jobs in the areas of STEM.

Students learn to work with supercomputersStudents have begun

to work on the Intel Supercomputing Challenge, a project where they work with supercomputers (high-capacity computers) to design a biopsy needle used to collect cancerous cells.

WHS partnered with Intel, a computer technology company, and Angiotech, a medical technology company, so students can help design and maximize the efficiency of Angiotech’s BioPince, a biopsy needle for cancer cells.

“We’re the only high school in the country to be doing a project like this. The number one thing kids get out of this is real world experience,” Jeff Bott, Project Lead the Way instructor, said.

Students will work with engineers and use a program called ANSYS, an industry program in finite element analysis (FEA), which consists of using a computer model to analyze, design and refine products.

“I hope to learn more about computers using new types of software and also to market our project and design to the company and start to develop business skills,” Megan Vasey, senior,

SADD plans to promote National Sleep Awareness Week from March 5 to March 9. On March 7, students will have a pajama day and take 10 to 15 minute naps during and after announcements. SADD will also have lunchtime activities during the week.

said. On Feb. 13, students

participating in the challenge went on a field trip to tour Angiotech and meet with the engineers. They learned to use the supercomputing software on Feb. 23. They will meet every week to do research and work on the project at the school’s engineering lab, which can connect to the

supercomputing software.“Hopefully this will be

on the nationwide scale. It would be cool to be part of the first class to use this. Also, how many times in life do you get to use a supercomputer?” Nick Crumbaugh, sophomore, said.

Before, when companies made biopsy needles, they had to use physical models

made of ballistic gel. With ANSYS, the students can run prototypes and set parameters on the supercomputing software.

“They are essentially looking at the BioPince model, looking at redesign and what is the effectiveness in using FEA to optimize the design,” Dan Weidner, physics teacher, said.

When the students finish

the design, they will present it to Angiotech. They will also present their project at the Positive Impact competition on April 13.

“I think it’s a great project,” Mr. Bott said. “Unfortunately, you listen to the news and hear about cancer. They’re working on something they see everyday through the news. I think that’s great for them.”

Javier Tamayo, junior, learns how to use the ANSYS supercomputing software on Feb. 23 in the engineering lab, as Jacqueline Juarez, junior, watches. Tamayo participates in the Intel Supercomputing Challenge, using ANSYS to design a biopsy needle for cancerous cells. The participants of the challenge are still in planning stages.

Valerie Westin Photo Editor

House of Slam performed at Louder Than a Bomb on Feb. 26 and 27, a slam poetry festival which took place at Columbia College in Chicago. The team placed fourth in its bout.

See online for more details.

Rosalie ChanNews Editor

Valerie WestinPhoto Editor

Rosalie ChanNews Editor

3ForumMarch 2, 2012Spokesman

Spokesman Staff 2011-2012Editor-in-Chief*Daniel Brount

Associate Editor*Gaby Najera

Web Editor*Jennie Alcantar

News Editor*Rosalie Chan

Asst. News EditorFrida Valdes

Forum Editor*Solinna Chong

Feature Editors*Jasminne Hernandez*Karen Rodriguez

Focus Editor*Megan Jones

La Voz Editor*Jocelyn Torres

Asst. La Voz EditorPerla Jimenez

A&E Editor*Krista Sanford

Asst. A&E EditorRobert Perales

Asst. Sports EditorJes Martinez

Photo/Multimedia Editor*Valerie Westin

Asst. Photo EditorKristina Piamonte

Graphics Editors*Mikey CiavarellaJocelyn Torres

Advertising ManagerMegan Jones

Staff ReportersNicole NeumannKhadeeja SalehbhaiMark Tannous

Staff PhotographersJessie LivingstonJessie Sanford

Staff ArtistKeira Skenandore

AdviserJohn Uhrik

This is the official student newspaper of Wheeling High School, 900 S. Elmhurst Road, Wheeling, Ill. 60090. Written, edited and distributed 8 times a year by advanced journalism classes, independent studies and other interested and qualified students. Produced by using desktop publishing and is printed by Son’s Enterprises, Inc., Skokie Ill. Mailed subscription $15 per year.

Letters- Spokesman is a limited public forum and welcomes a free exchange of ideas from all readers. Readers

are encouraged to contribute letters to the staff in room 135 or mail them in care of WHS. All letters must be signed. Letters may be edited for length, style, possible libel, clarity, and adherence to our publication policies. Spokesman’s mission is to report the news objectively and truthfully. We will print any known corrections here in the issue following our gaining knowledge of the error.

Advertising- For infor-mation, call (847) 718-7114 Monday-Friday 7:25 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.

Corrections-Conrad Ratschan’s name was misspelled on Page 1.Voting for PIPA and SOPA are not on Jan. 24; it’s postponed on Page 1.Cynthia Carro was misquoted on Page 2.Valerie Westin was misspelled on Page 6.

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Editorial

Keira’s Kartoons

Procrastination increases by workload

Although rumors arose of new rules for Turnabout, the administration currently plans to continue enforcing original policies.

Through having extra chaperons and warnings, the administration hopes the dance will run smoothly.

While Spokesman recognizes students want to enjoy the dance, students must follow the policies to ensure more rules will not be added next year.

T h e administration added more chaperons due to negative occurrences in the past. Students suffering from bloody feet at Homecoming led to the stricter shoe policy.

If students abuse their privileges at the dance, the administration will take more action for future dances. Students have the freedom to break these rules on their own time, but they must respect policies during school sponsored events.

These policies are enforced to promote appropriate behavior and to create a safe, enjoyable environment. Spokesman feels students should not take the administration’s leniency for granted.

Seniors will remember when the vending machines were shut down freshman year as punishment for

d i s r e s p e c t on summer reading day and littering. Many other students will remember the Homecoming

spirit stick being announced at the football game this year due to near trampling of students in past assemblies.

Luckily, the student body avoided a strict set of rules for one more year. However, the administration has demonstrated willingness to add consequences when necessary. Spokesman feels students must utilize this dance as an opportunity to prove a new set of rules unnecessary.

Students must respect Turnabout policies

Cramming all my studying and homework into one night, I force my eyes to stay open for another hour, frantically trying to complete the charts and notecards at 12 in the morning, all for one class: AP World History.

Although I should start homework right after school, I usually do not start homework until 6 or 7 in the evening. This is because I get distracted by books, Facebook and other things.

This causes me to stay up late and rush through my homework.

For many students, the problem is having too much going on to be motivated to do homework.

Some students also deal with a busy extracurricular schedule while others take Advanced Placement and honors classes, increasing their workload.

According to Husna Alegoz, junior, said AP U.S History was the class she procrastinates in the most.

“It’s the most work and he gives us the work ahead of time so I just don’t do it until the last day,” Alegroz said.

These days, the school seems to be focusing more and more on making sure

students receive college credit and maintain a good GPA level to keep applications looking good. These all effectively increase stress and procrastination.

Sometimes students just need a break from the pressures school gives them to succeed and lay a good foundation for their future. Because students are so stressed out, they turn to procrastination.

I know whenever I feel overwhelmed from excessive homework, I push it off until the last minute to give myself an incentive to actually want to complete my homework.

Rossy Peralta, sophomore, approaches homework using a different method altogether.

“I get a blanket and try to make myself comfortable,” Peralta said.

Students resort to procrastination more frequently as a way to deal with the stress of succeeding and doing well in their classes. Teachers are constantly implying that high school education can make or break a student’s future.

It would be more helpful if teachers focused more on the learning aspect of school, rather than spitting out information for the sake of a student’s future. Making school fun to learn can decrease procrastination to make homework seem less daunting.

Students are already aware of, and many are using, time management skills.

What needs to occur is a more fun learning environment so that students can look at their future positively and procrastinate less. They will not see their homework as a boring and daunting task that they need to put off until 12 a.m.

Teenage winter fashion becomes health hazard

The “teenage cool factor” is wearing thin, skimpy sweatshirts in below freezing weather and complaining about how cold it is outside.

As many students know, winter in Wheeling is brutal. Just last year, a terrible snow storm canceled school

for two days and buried streets and cars under 15 inches of snow. Such cold weather requires warm clothing, yet some students continue to believe that they are thick-skinned enough to bear the freeze.

One early morning, the fire alarm went off, and teachers escorted the students outside. Since it was only 6:50 in the morning, the weather was about 20 degrees.

I looked around at the teachers, and they were happily chatting with their long coats and earmuffs. On the other hand, students huddled together in their

sweatshirts and continued to curse at the wind.

“For teens, wearing bulky winter coats, gloves, boots— unless teen girls consider them high fashion— and hats screams nerd, geek, baby, dork... uncool!” Charelton Kendrick, family therapist said in an article by Tween Tribune.

Why would students choose “cool” over warmth? Well it’s probably because students usually think that they are invincible, yet risky clothing will lead to risks in health issues.

When temperatures are at 40 degrees and below, it is important to wear a hat.

According to the National Weather Service, about 75 percent of a person’s body heat escapes from the head. When the body loses too much heat, it is more likely to get hypothermia or when the body’s internal temperature is below 95 degrees.

Although hypothermia occurs on rarer occasions, a more common health problem is frostbite. Frostbite occurs when the body tissues freeze after being exposed to cold weather for certain amount of time.

Rulon Gardener, Olympic wrestling champion, ended his career after his toe was

amputated due to frostbite, as said in New York Times.

Getting hypothermia, frostbite or just the common cold can easily be prevented by throwing a hat and gloves on.

My parents would always nag me about wearing a scarf before leaving the house.

“Do you think getting sick is easy?” they would always ask me.

Being warm and healthy is always cool. Students should consider their health first before debating whether a hat will ruin their hair. Winter comes only once a year, so for that time, be warm and dress warm.

Solinna Chong

Khadeeja Salehbhai

To Maria Tinajero and Ana Karen Hernandez, seniors, for receiving a full-ride scholarship to Robert Morris University.

To Daisy Maldonado, sophomore, for winning an Honorable Mention for one of her photos. This is the first time a WHS student has been awarded.

To the warmer weather. Wheeling is known for its cold spring break, but this year, it seems like spring will actually feel like spring.

To Adele for winning six Grammy awards at the 54th Annual Grammy’s. She also won Best British Female Artist at the Brit Awards.

To APPAL being “correctly” changed to be called AP Language and Composition (APLAC). Some students do not even know what the class is anymore.

To there not being a clock in the gymnasium. Students in their P.E classes should also know when the period will end.

Out of 12 members on the editorial board, 10 agreed and two disagreed.

*Staff members with asterisks are on the editorial board.

Spokesman also accepts all cartoon submissions. Those who are chosen to be published in the newspaper will be credited in the staff box as Guest Staff Cartoonist.

4FeatureMarch 2, 2012Spokesman

Tanning provides benefits despite health risksWhen Cailey Brune, senior, first went

tanning at Executive Tans a few months ago, she described the bed as “a heated coffin.”

Although she wanted to start at age 16, her mom did not allow her to, so she had to wait until age 18. Her mom had skin cancer under her arm from when she tanned, which resulted in her disapproval of Brune’s tanning.

“I’m still scared of the tanning bed; it’s really hot and claustrophobic,” Brune said. “My mom gets angry when I say I’m going tanning.”

On the other hand, Ashley Chambers, senior, and Ally Chambers, freshman, said their mom approves since she too tans. Both sisters began tanning in middle school.

“Tanning makes me feel better about myself and boosts my confidence,” Ashley Chambers said. “If you’re in a bad mood and go tanning, you feel better.”

According to Ally Chambers, the two sisters sometimes “battle to be tanner than the other.” Nonetheless, Ashley Chambers said she tans almost everyday while Ally Chambers said she only tans a couple days each week, usually with her sister or mom.

Like Brune and the Chambers sisters, Angela Wallen, senior, tans at Executive Tans and generally goes with others.

“Almost all of my friends do it. We all usually go to the same place at the same time,” Wallen said. “I like having a little bit of color to me instead of being pasty in the winter.”

Tonya Leu, ‘10 graduate, also tanned at Executive Tans; however, since getting skin cancer, she stopped. Her experience with cancer began at age 15.

“I tanned for years before cancer, and it progressively got worse,” Leu said. “I didn’t want to look white. I thought it would make me look better, but it was just me being self-conscious.”

The skin cancer occurred on her arm and back, and she underwent surgery to remove it. She now must go to the doctor for periodic checks to make sure it does not return.

“I feel dumb because it’s honestly not worth having to be tan. On my arm, I have

the ugliest scar i m a g i n a b l e , ” Leu said. “It’s not worth having to put myself through that, especially at such a young age.”

According to Lexy Scanlon, freshman and Leu’s cousin, multiple members of their family tan.

“I still get worried, but I feel like so many more people in my family have gone tanning, and only one person got it (skin cancer). I feel like it’s a possibility, but I’ll be okay,” Scanlon said.

Though Leu thinks people should know the risks of tanning, she said “if they’re going to do it, they’ll do it.”

“Skin cancer does happen. Someone is going to get it. Being tan or brown isn’t worth going through all that misery,” Leu said. “Just think about what is worth it and what is not.”

Knowing of her cousin’s experience, Scanlon tans rarely, usually only for occasions like Homecoming.

Both Wallen and Ashley Chambers tan more in preparation for Turnabout. However, Wallen generally stops if it starts to cost too much. Executive offers different payment plans, like Wallen’s, which costs $10 a month plus $1 each visit.

“Obviously the money affects us, but we sacrifice some stuff,” Ally Chambers said.

According to Ashley Chambers, a lot of her paycheck goes toward tanning. Despite the cost, Ashley Chambers said she cannot stop.

“For me, it’s like an addiction... I’ve been

Chihuahua, Knapp marry at young age

“I never imagined myself married so young. I feel like I grew up too fast,” Gaby Chihuahua, senior, said.

Chihuahua married Thomas Knapp, husband, on Jan. 28, 2011 after having known each other for 2 years. Although they were friends, they did not get to know each other until they began chatting online, since Knapp lived in New York at that time.

After two months of communicating via Facebook and text, the two began liking each other as more than friends.

“I fell in love with him for who he was, not based on his looks or anything like that,” Chihuahua said.

According to Chihuahua, Knapp proposed the idea of getting married and she thought it was a only joke, considering he lived miles away. One day, however, he called her and told her, “I’m outside.”

“My heart was beating so fast. I was so excited and nervous,” Chihuahua said.

Knapp’s parents drove him from New York to Chicago and 7 months later a judge married them.

While Chihuahua is 100 percent Mexican, Knapp is German-Irish. Although their relationship has been stable, the fact that they are from different backgrounds has brought conflicts.

“Sometimes the language barrier is hard to deal with because it stresses me out since I come from a town where everyone spoke English,” Knapp said.

Chihuahua’s parents had to get accustomed to her having a lot of freedom after she got married.

“My parents were more strict and his

culture is based more on freedom so he could basically do a lot of the stuff he wanted easily,” Chihuahua said.

Meanwhile, Julie Maldonado, junior and Chihuahua’s friend, said she prefers to wait until she’s finished her education to get married.

“I would wait because I’m not ready for that big of a step,” Maldonado said.

Chihuahua agrees that she took a big step and her life changed dramatically once she got married. She developed new responsibilities within her home, such as cooking, cleaning and washing.

“Being in a boyfriend-girlfriend relationship is so different than being married. You know, having a responsibility to someone and paying bills,” Chihuahua said.

Even though this was a big step, both Chihuahua and Knapp agree that they would not change their decision.

“I didn’t mind that she was young. I was young too, but knowing that I could be with her always through marriage was a feeling so wonderful, so extraordinary, so undescribable, and I’d never change it,” Knapp said.

After Chihuahua graduates this year, they plan to move permanently to New York where they will attend Corning Community College.

While their education will come first, Knapp and Chihuahua still plan on having kids, but after they have completed their degrees.

“I take care of my niece all the time and seeing my sister struggle, it changed my point of view. We aren’t financially stable right now so when the time comes, we’ll be ready,” Chihuahua said.

Students learn to teach through Education Academy

Students have the opportunity to be part of the Education Academy their junior and senior year.

The academy gives students the opportunity to teach certain grade levels first hand.

“I like to see the kids perservere to be better in life and school, and it’s fun,” Berenice Diaz, senior and teacher intern for the academy.

Diaz has taught at Kirk High School, a special education school and Jack London Middle School. She is currently teaching at Field Elementary School. At Field, she teaches bilingual kindergarten, fourth and fifth grade.

According to Diaz, her favorite part so far has been teaching at Field Elementary School.

“When I was doing the application it asked, ‘Is there someone that influenced you to be a teacher?’ and I said my second grade teacher,” Diaz said.

The appreciation she has for her second grade teacher has led her to aspire a teaching career in the

elementary grade level.“I like to teach elementary

bilingual because I want the students to learn more English and read more. In a bilingual class I had, there were not only Hispanics but also other people who come from places that don’t know English. It’s cool helping them out,” Diaz said.

Michelle Issen, senior and student at the a c a d e m y, has taught at the same s c h o o l s Diaz has and is c u r re n t l y t e a c h i n g at Field Elementary school.

Issen wants to become a kindergartern to eighth grade teacher due to her experience.

“I have learned a lot about how schools are constantly changing and forced to adhere to new policies. We also talk a lot in class about No Child Left Behind and Chicago Public Schools,” Issen said.

According to Issen, the Education Academy has opened many doors for her future.

“It has not only helped prepare me for future teaching and learning but helped me get me into this scholarship for future teachers,” Issen said.

Ben Reiff, senior, has appreciated being part of the academy.

“It has made me realize that teaching is something I really want to do. Being able

to student t e a c h in all of t h e s e di f ferent c l a s s e s r e a l l y helped me decide on w a n t i n g to teach

middle school,” Reiff said.To join the academy,

students go through the counselor to receive a questionnaire handout and receive a writing prompt of why the student is interested in the academy.

They also have to go through an interviewing process with Linda Pribyl, head of Education Academy and teacher at Rolling Meadows High School. There are no specific classes students need to take before applying to the academy.

Jasminne HernandezFeature Editor

Karen RodriguezFeature Editor

Head of Education Academy

I love the students and seeing their passion for teaching.“

Linda Pribyl ”

Tanning beds are indoor machines with fluorescent lamps that release long waves of ultraviolet light (UVA). These waves are stronger than the short UVB waves that result from natural outdoor light.

Pros:• Tan faster• More, even tan• Available all year• Stronger light waves

Cons:• Risk of skin cancer• Risk of damage to the

cornea• Increased cost

Infographic by Michael CiavarellaInformation from <healthguidance.org>

trying to create an image by losing weight, tanning, doing my hair. It’s more than just tanning, it’s having my best image to show people,” Ashley Chambers said. “That’s why I started. Yeah, it feels good, but it also is meant to create an image.”

While Ashley Chambers enjoys tanning, she also recognizes the risks that come with it.

“When I get burned, I lay off for a while because I feel like if you go again and again, then that’s how you get skin cancer,” Wallen said. “It kind of freaks me out if I see a freckle. I get nervous. But I think as long as you don’t get crazy about it, the risks aren’t too high.”

Ashley Chambers has dealt with some issues such as white spots that result from tanning too much. Despite this, she continues.

“People make fun of me and say ‘you’re going to get skin cancer.’ People that care about you say not to go,” Ashley Chambers said. “When people say to stop, it goes in one ear and out the other. Until I get that doctor telling me I have skin cancer, I don’t think I’ll stop.”

According to Ashley Chambers, if this did occur, she would make her sister stop tanning.

“Sometimes I get scared, but I’ve never had white spots like Ashley does,” Ally Chambers said. “But I hate when people say ‘you’re too tan, disgusting, orange.’”

While people sometimes make fun of Ally Chambers due to tanning, Brune only experienced that beforehand.

“Everyone would tell me I was really pale and my friends would make fun of me, so I started going,” Brune said.

Daniel BrountEditor-in-Chief

5Feature March 2, 2012Spokesman

FCCLA competes at Grayslake Sectional

After attending the Grayslake Sectional for FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America), Wheeling returned with numerous awards, including Jess Musto, junior, receiving a “Most Outstanding” in the Star Event for Fashion Design.

“I was astonished. I set a high expectation for myself because being a star event, it’s a higher level of competition than proficiency. I didn’t know what to expect,” Musto said.

According to Toni Holt, FCCLA sponsor, no student from WHS has competed in that event in several years.

“This is the first time someone is competing in a star event,” Ms. Holt said. “It has to be someone who has a passion. I won’t just take anybody; they have to give 100 percent.”

If she does well at State, Musto will move on to Nationals.

In order to compete in this event, she designed a clothing line, “Breaking Free,” and created a portfolio for her line with information like target customers and price. She also gave a speech based on her line.

“I’m satisfied with my designs because they are really cohesive,” Musto said. “Usually when I design, I do a bunch of different things, but for this I brought a

bunch of things together.”Musto began working on the portfolio

during the summer.“It was flawless, a beautiful job. To get

‘Most Outstanding,’ that’s pretty cool,” Ms. Holt said.

Alongside Musto, numerous other students competed in proficiency events.

“I think all of the girls did a really good job. We definitely had some well-made

garments and interesting design ideas,” Musto said.

In the semi-formal wear event, Felicia McGuinn, senior, qualified for State by placing second.

“I’m going to make a new dress that hopefully has everything the judges are looking for,” McGuinn said. “I just like to do my best and make something I’d wear after the competition.”

Danielle Knurowski, senior, competed in the casual wear event.

Knurowski earned second place, but missed first by one point.

“It was my best work. I’ve come a long way since sophomore year,” Knurowski said.

McGuinn however had trouble with judges.

“There’s a big drama because the grading was so hard this year. My dress was the best thing I’ve ever made, but the judges contradicted each other, so scores weren’t consistent,” McGuinn said.

Those who placed first or second place at Sectionals will compete at the State competition on April 19 and 20.

Jess Musto, junior, sews the chiffon lining of her dress for her Fashion Design Star Event. She won “Most Outstanding” in her event. Along with her dress, she had to include a clothing line, price information and her career information. “I have been in fashion for three years, and this lets me do it because I have the design and construction skills to do it,” Musto said.She titled her clothing line “Breaking Free,” and she designed multiple outfits for it. “I designed it with the idea of a prairie, it fits a girl who wants to be daring and discover the world at the same time,” Musto said.

FCCLA State QualifiersStar Event:Jess Musto,

junior, won “Most Outstanding” in Fashion Design.

Proficiency Events:

Jennifer AlonsoJasmine Halstead

Alex HammackDanielle Knurowski

Jess MustoFelicia McGuinnJennifer Rivera

Rosa TejedaFaye Tsogas

Musto earns ‘Most Outstanding’ in Star Event

Daniel Brount Editor-in-Chief

Daniel BrountEditor-in-Chief

6FocusMarch 2, 2012Spokesman

At the Principal Advisory Council Pack, WHS discussed a plan to move forward with better dress code and dancing behavior at school dances. While no written rules have formed, changing the atmosphere of the dance will receive greater attention.

“In my opinion, it is good and bad. It’s good because it makes it seem like we have a little more class and that we are not as grimy. But bad as well because it takes away from the students’ freedom

of choice and fun,” Anthony Garing, senior, said.

In order to maintain an appropriate environment, Maine West High School has created a wristband policy where if students are caught grinding, their wristband will be taken away. Second offenses result in students being sent home.

“We are not going to apply any official written rules or new policies like wristbands. We just want students to see this as a school dance and appropriate,” Debra Swierczek, dean of students, said.

Starting at the 2012 Turnabout Dance, girls are no longer allowed to check their shoes in at the coat check.

In previous years, girls were allowed to check in their shoes. Two incidents occurred where girls ended up with bloody feet which influenced this restriction.

Also, WHS asks for appropriate dress lengths, for guys to keep on their dress shirts during the dance and for “simulated sexual dancing to end.”

“I totally understand the dress length policy, because some girls practically wear

nothing to dances, but I think the shoes policy and the undershirt policy are a bit ridiculous,” Meghan Ausnehmer, junior, said. “Some girls have really uncomfortable shoes that they wear only to take pictures because they look good. I wouldn’t want anyone to have blisters or twist their ankle just because we have to wear shoes all night.”

The DJ is told ahead of time that if he sees inappropriate dancing during the song he is playing, he has to change the music to a song with a

different style.“We have previously

found a pair of underwear leftover on the dance floor and that is gross,” Dean Swierczek said. “The dances have become more rampant and other students have said that they do not want to attend anymore because it’s gross.”

According to Katherine Schwarz, junior, she believes the administration should host the dances at places with more air conditioning so guys do not feel the need to take their shirts off.

“I believe it is okay of

the administrators to have some suggestions on what can be done,” Cecy Estrada, junior, said.

Chaperones have not been given any new instructions on how to supervise the dances, according to Tricia Anderson, business ed teacher and chaperone.

“I don’t know why everyone is freaking out about rules changing, but if they were (changing) I would support that,” Anderson said.

Rules that have existed in the past will just be reinforced.

Staff hopes to change atmosphere of dances

Photo Opinion by Valerie Westin and Mark Tannous

Is it fair for administration to intervene with dancing at school dances?

“No, because it is our time to have fun.”

Fernando Martinez,freshman

“No, because people enjoy expressing themselves on the dance floor, and if you take away that freedom, it will no longer be fun.”Julien Willoughby,

sophomore

“They should be able to have a few restrictions, but they should still let us have fun.”

Asher Crawley, junior

“No, because grinding isn’t harmful. We are just having fun.”

Sara Mansouri, senior

“Yes, they have to make the best environment for everyone. We want everyone to have a positive experience.”Michael Tice, Physical

Education teacher

Faculty keeps original rules, but students remain divided on policies

Keira’s Kartoons WILL YOU GO TO TURNABOUT?

“I asked Michael (Schalz, senior) by placing post it notes all over his room. He loved it, even though he was like ‘great now I have to take these all down.’”- Ashley Chambers,

senior

“I asked Michael Pink (junior) using a drag queen, Keisha Fox. I went to his house and I was hiding in a box in his living room. Keisha was at the door and flirted with him. Mike’s birthday was coming up so Keisha said she had one more surprise, and I jumped out of the box and asked him.”- Kelsey Nicpon, junior

“I asked Juan (Montelongo, junior.) I had a fish inside a bowl with a piece of paper saying ‘From all the fish in the sea, will you go to Turnabout with me?’”- Nadia Montesinos,

sophomore

Photos used with permissionInfographic by Megan Jones

Megan JonesFocus Editor

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While planning for Turnabout, senior class board decided on the theme “Willy Wonkabout.”

According to Karen Rinella, senior class board sponsor, the process “was strictly student driven.”

At their meetings, they brainstormed themes and asked for student opinion outside of the board until they narrowed it down to “Willy Wonkabout” and an Egyptian theme. Then they thought of ideas and presented both themes before voting.

“I was fine with whichever one, but I did end up voting for this one (‘Willy Wonkabout’). Either way, it would have been a good theme,” Rachel Stephani, senior and class board member, said.

Besides the theme, senior class board also worked on organizing parts of Turnabout such as decorations, music and the DJ.

“We’ve been using the same DJ for a while, and we like him so we stayed with it,” Tori Caringella, senior and class board member, said. “We looked online for different decorations and stuff.”

A lot of their time involved incorporating the theme into the dance. They added it to ticket sales by having a chocolate fountain at their table in the main hallway and selling golden tickets.

They also used the theme when working on the giveaways and decorations. One of the decorations, an arch, will be made up of candy and balloons.

“The arch is supposed to take two to three hours,” Amanda Choi, senior and class board member, said. “I’m definitely excited for the candy bouquets because I think they’ll be really cute once they are on the tables.”

In order to set up, the class board members that can miss block D will leave for Chevy Chase today.

“We’ll go there and decorate for about three hours and get everything laid out. I think it will go well as long as everybody works together to get it done,” Stephani said. “Ms. Rinella is very organized.”

The class board will divide in groups to focus on the different projects such as the arch, candy bouquets and balloon bouquets.

“It’ll be a busy time, but I think they’ve been really organized,” Ms. Rinella said.

Senior class board organizes ‘Willy Wonkabout’ dance

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Follow us on Twitter! @WHSSpokesman Checkout our updated news.

Looking back into the past... “Over the past 30 years that I have been here WHS has hosted Turnabout dances. Some years they got canceled because not enough students were attending them. At a lot of the dances, the girls get more dressed up now; and in the past, girls would just wear nice skirts and sweaters. It used to be that girls just asked a guy to turnabout but now they use much more elaborate things to ask guys,” Judy (Mama) Kraus, security guard, said.

What essentials do you bring to school dances?

What part of getting ready takes the longest?

How do you decide who’s in your group?

“Your wallet,”

Connor Leuck, junior

“Flats,”

Vanessa Chanel Lily, freshman

“Probably shaving because you gotta get it pretty smooth and even,”

Joey Smith, senior

“I have no idea, I don’t make the groups. Usually one of the main couples does,”

Andi Splett, freshman

How much money do you spend on Turnabout?

“My dress was pretty cheap, that was a plus, and dinner depends,”

Charlene Figueroa, senior

bout

urnabout

Information gathered by Gaby Najera

Daniel BrountEditor-in-Chief

8La VozSept. 23, 2011Spokesman

El género único de “Pequeña Orquesta de Trovadores”

Quien dijo que le música folclórica se quedó para los cowboys y hippies? Un grupo Argentino con un nombre único, como su genero, emergió hace poco. La “Pequeña Orquesta De Trovadores” intenta regresar el enfoque a música tradicional mientras mezcla su propio sónido.

P a r e c i e n d o semejantemente inocente, su álbum más reciente hace entender que minetras parecen quedarse en el lado seguro, vale la pena escuchar aunque sea un poco de cada canción. Abren sus bocas y los vocales sumergen en un mar de tonos musicales. Los accentos curioses agregan el estilo único de su género.

Aunque su sonido no es algo tan espectacular, su motivo es lo que atrae a los fans de música folklorica. Ellos intentan separarse de los sonidos que la música latina tiende a inclinarse hacia como lo electornico o rock.

Para ser un groupo de jóvenes, esta orquesta tienen un estílo seguro y memorable. La canción más popular de su albúm, nombrado igual que su grupo, es “El loco del 9o A”. Abre con una guitarra rítmica y sonidos curiosos que sólamente se pueden describir como sakvajes.

Esta canción sobre un hombre inofensivo pero completamente loco es dulce igual que la melodía que la acompaña.

Creo que el sonido que trantan de emitir

tiene que ver con la canción. Abren con un una mezcla de instrumentos de cuerda y voces erráticas que depictan a el loco.

“La música que suena y que lo hace bailer, llena y lo llena cuando empieza a delirar...”

Las letras son únicas igual que las bocas enuncian cada palabra con acento grueso combinado con emoción.

La última canción en el álbum titulada “Buenas Noches” está diciendo como un adios símbolico a sus segudores y literalmente en las letras. Cierran el álbum con un sonido de balada que se puede escuchar en el sur de Texas cantando alrededor de una fogata.

Otra vez, los instrumentos de cuerda abren la canción con un tono relajado y simple, lo que sugiere a el que lo escucha que tome un aciento juto esa fogata en Texas

y absorbe el ambinete calmado que emite la canción.

“...Y estrellar contra las olas con la mi paraiso terrenal. Tanto cielo me ilumina y hace que solamente aca pueda descasar.”

Las letras, aunque no son tan complejas a primer escucho, tienen una majestad hermosa. Llevan ideas símbolicas enterradas dentro de las letras simples que las

acarrean. Con escuchar aunque sea una vez, se

aprecia el intento de la “Pequeña Orquesta de Trovadores” de ser únicos dentro el oceano de música latina blanda. No importa si uno no pueda hablar o entender el español bien, sus intsrumentos y vocales hipnotizan a cualquier persona el el cuarto.

Dominan el genero fólklorico porque ellos son un ejemplo perfecto a lo que debe representar la música.

<www. potrovadores.bandcamp.com>Echa un vistazo al álbum en

donde se puede descargar en <www.wheelingspokesman.com>

Diferencias entre escuelas internacionales Sueños Latinos supera falta de comunicación

Jessica Hernandez, junior, creció en the E.U., pero cuando tenía 13 años se mudó a Michoacan,

México y estudió por tres años. “Hay

muchas differencias,” Hernandez dijo. “Los

maestros de aquí te empujan a obtener buenas calificaciones. A ellos(maestros en México) no les importa si aprendes o no. Es una gran diferencia.” En su escuela tenía que usar uniforme, y los estudiantes no cambiaban de clases. También, no tenía

actividades extracurriculares o deportes.

“Alla, puedes estar con tus amigos todo el día. Te quedas en las mismas clases y hablas con ellos,” Hernandez dijo. “Cuando fuí a méxico era muy diferente; me gustó. Puedes estar con tus amigos en la escuela y cuando estas en casa.”

Hernandez tuvo que tomar clases de ESL cuando llegó a E.U. durante dos años, pero ya no las necesita. “No sabía de que iba a ser la preparatoria , entonces fue muy difícil ajustarse,”Hernandez dijo.

Tres días antes de la fiesta de Sueños Latinos, Bertha Sanchez, patrocinadora de Latino Club pregunto, “¿Conoces a alguien quien podría ser DJ el viernes?”

El problema del DJ preocupo a los miembros hasta la noche anterior del baile, cuando a las once de la noche, Gabriela Medina, patrocinadora de Latino Club y la señora Sanchez contrataron alguien quien estaba disponible el siguiente día.

Publicidad también causo muchas preocupaciones. Antes del baile, individuales del grupo distribuyeron invitaciones alrededor de la escuela para anunciarlo. El día del baile, los volantes habían desaparecido de los pasillos, y muchos estudiantes ni sabían del baile.

“La mitad del problema es que no podemos comunicar entre nosotros,” dijo Marisa Martinez, sophmore.

La mayoría de el Club Latino también decidió que la comunicación era el problema más importante que tuvieron en planear la fiesta.

De todos modos, las familias disfrutaron de la noche. El DJ tocó música que variaba desde Pitbull a Caballo Dorado a Elivs Presley. Era poca la gente que no bailó.

Tanto disfrutaron que en medio de una canción, un miembro de la facultad entro con una escalera para componer una lampara y la gente siguió. Hasta bailaban con la escalera.

“Al final todo salió bien,” dijo la Sra.Sanchez. Reflejó que aunque había falta de organización, al final todas las piezas se reunieron.

Janet Mancera, junior, estudió en Guanajuato, México. Segun Mancera, la mayor diferencia entre las escuelas en el extranjero es que “los maestros te dan más atención; se enfocan mucho en tí.” En las escuela donde estudió tenía que usar uniformes, y el horario cambia dependiendo del día, a veces empieza a a las 9 a.m. y termina a a las 12 p.m. No solo es difícil tener que acoplarse a el nuevo país, pero también tener a la familia lejos complica el proceso.

Otras veces, las clases empiezan a las 12 a.m. y

terminan a las 3:30 p.m. Adicionalmente, en las escuelas de E.U. “no tienen tan vigilados (a los estudiantes) como aquí ; es mas libre,” Mancera dijo.

Mancera dijo que se le ha dificultado estudiar en E.U. “Tengo aprender el ingles, pero ya aprendiendolo creo que es más fácil aquí que alla; al principio agarré muchas palabras fácil pero ahora ya se me está complicando.”

Perla JimenezAsst. La Voz Editor

Frida ValdesAsst. News Editor

Manuel Valdespino, maestro de español, dijo que “los estudiantes ven difícil el proceso de aprender un segundo idioma, además estan en un proceso de adapatación a la cultura (americana).” En adición, el Sr. Valdespino dijo que “los estudiantes son más responsables por que ellos deciden estudiar.”

J o n a t h a n Vizcaino, junior, emigró de Ecuador en el 2006. De

acuerdo a Vizcaino, su escuela era muy

pobre y no tenía muchos suministros

o muchas actividades extracurriculares.

“No les importa si pasas la clase. Solo quieren que sigas adelante,”Vizcaino dijo. “No tenemos escritorios; solo tenemos sillas... Si te portas

mal te echan de la clase...(En los E.U.) tienes que pasar todas las clases para seguir al siguiente año.”

Vizcaino tomó clases de por tres años, y también recibió ayuda de su papá cuando estaba aprediendo Inglés. Aunque tomó clases en Ecuador, solo enseñan palabras básicas.

“Hay mucha más estructura aquí,” Rebecca Castro, maestra de Español y cooridnadora de ELL, dijo.

De acuerdo con Shelia Heck, maestra y coordinadora de la evaluación de ESL, WHS tiene 168 estudiantes en en programa de ELL (English Language Learners/Estudiantes del Idioma Inglés) La mitad de ellos nacieron en los E.U., y la otra mitad vinieron de el extranjero , mayormente de paises de habla española. “Una cosa que les molesta es cuando la gente naturalmente asume que todos son mexicanos,” Ms. Heck dijo. “Los puedes ver y pensar que por que todos hablan español, todos son diferentes.; eso no es verdad.”

Maestros igual que estudiantes discutan las diferencias entre escuelas de latinoamérica y los E.E.U.U.

Jocelyn Torres

Rosalie ChanNews Editor

For the third time in four years, Orchesis will head to the National High School Dance Festival held in Philadelphia, PA.

While Orchesis had already decided to go before submitting two dances into the Festival, the dance, “Flow,” was selected to perform at the Gala performance on the closing night on the main stage in Merriam Theatre.

“We have been the only public non-magnet school that has been selected to perform on the main stage. It’s insane odds to get anything in the festival,” Diane Rawlinson, dance teacher and Orchesis director, said.

Magnet schools focus on one certain topic, like dance, and students must audition in order to get in .Non-magnet schools mean students go to a certain school based on where they live.

According to Ms. Rawlinson, the three types of performances in the Festival include Informal, Showcase and Gala; with the Gala being the best.

“Of the pieces selected, less than one-fourth of them are public,” Ms. Rawlinson said. “When we auditioned two pieces, we knew it was Gala level, which was a big deal.”

“Flow” performers include Aaron Jung, sophomore; Chelsie Coren, Harlan Rosen, juniors; Dani Bitout, Mallorie Bromer and Melody Sylvester, seniors.

According to Ms. Rawlinson, after she found out about the Gala level, Erin Deluga, assistant principal, Kevin Muck, Business division head, and she surprised the Orchesis members with the announcement and flowers.

“I actually started crying because I performed in (the Festival) sophomore year. It just really hit me. I was surprised and happy at one time,” Bitout said.

Jung agreed with Bitout, saying that he felt shocked and “euphoria” after hearing about the gala.

“All your waiting is over with, and you can do something we’re proud of,” Jung said.

Besides performing, Orchesis will participate in different classes with other dancers. According to Ms. Rawlinson, the classes are intense but fun.

“It’s really amazing to be in classes with other kids. You’re just surrounded by people,” Ms. Rawlinson said.

According to Bitout, she is looking forward to hanging out with everyone, dancing in the classes, going to a new city and performing onstage. She hopes that Orchesis will get closer.

According to Rawlinson, because Orchesis received the Pepsi grant back in November, all of which went to paying for the trip, $200 was taken off the payment for each Orchesis member going on the trip.

Orchesis leaves March 8 for a three-night and four-day trip. “Flow” will be performed at the closing night on March 10.

9A&EMarch 2, 2012Spokesman

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Orchesis prepares for Festival in Philadelphia

Top: Kaitlyn Nielsen, junior, dances to “White Winter Hymnal” during “Juxtaposition,” Orchesis’ performance on Feb. 23, 24 and 25. For this piece, Chelsie Coren, junior and choreographer, expressed conformity through the movement of the dance. Far Right: Coren poses during “Storm Before the Calm.” Other dancers in the piece were Sarah Rabin, junior, Menli Baygeldiyeva and Velen Vazquez, seniors.Right: Mallorie Bromer, senior, stares at Tegan Reschke, sophomore, during the dance “Do Zebras Have Black or White Stripes?”Top and right photo by Daniel Brount; Far right photo by Krista Sanford

Musical cast members announced

According to Jennifer Zorn-Sargent, English teacher and musical director, she wanted a popular, family show for this year’s musical. To do that, she chose “Beauty and the Beast.”

Melody Sylvester, senior, plays Belle and Matt Erickson, junior, plays the Beast.

“I was looking for actors who could act and sing their roles well,” Ms. Zorn-Sargent said. “Casting was very difficult because everyone had great auditions. I’m looking forward to working with a talented cast.”

Sylvester has been in musicals throughout high school and middle school and wanted to keep doing them her senior year. According to her, she went into auditions wanting Belle, but kept an open mind about the results.

“I really like the storyline and, as a kid, Belle was one of my favorite characters.

I wanted to be lead, but I went in thinking that it would be fun just to be in the musical,” Sylvester said.

Being new to school musicals, Erickson said that made him want to try a little harder during auditions in order to get a part. He tried out for the musical not just because he liked musicals, but because Nick Falco, music teacher, and Sarah Rabin, junior and Erickson’s girlfriend, wanted him to.

Before auditions, Erickson said that he was shaking and he kept saying, “‘Oh my gosh, I’m so nervous. I hope I don’t suck.’”

Lester Caramba, senior, who plays Gaston, had different thoughts than Erickson.

“I wasn’t too worried. I knew what part (I wanted) but wouldn’t be too heartbroken if I didn’t get it,” Caramba said.

According to Caramba, he wanted the part of Gaston because, “he’s a jerk, and I never get to be a jerk in real life.”

While Erickson never performed in a WHS musical before, Caramba was in the musical both sophomore and junior year. Despite this, he thought about not auditioning this year.

“People wanted me to. I was actually considering not doing it this year,” Caramba said. “I didn’t know if I would have enough time...and adding the musical is a big time commitment.”

Both Caramba and Erickson received the part that they wanted. According to Erickson, when he found out he was the lead, he fell to the floor and swore in his head.

The next months leading up to “Beauty and the Beast,” the actors will be practicing almost every school day.

According to Ms. Zorn-Sargent, she hopes this fairytale brings in a larger audience.

“I don’t really get many chances to sing by myself in front of people; and I get the opportunity (to do that now),” Sylvester said.

When: 7 p.m. on April 19 and 7:30 p.m. on April 20-21.Where: Robert E. Sang TheaterPrice: $10

Main Cast List:Melody Sylvester: BelleMatt Erickson: BeastSean O’Keefe: LefouLester Caramba: Gaston

Aaron Jung: MauriceMarco Mazzetta: Monsieur D’ ArqueNick Caputo: CogsworthHarlan Rosen: LumiereTegan Reschke: BabetteJulia McCarren: Mrs. PottsMaggie Monaxios: ChipMeghan Ausnehmer: Madame De La Grand Bouche

Krista SanfordA&E Editor

Krista SanfordA&E Editor

SummerReadingwinner

Even with the highly advanced technology and the well-created backdrop, “Act of Valor” does not surpass standards as a modern day action film.

The highly anticipated film, “Act of Valor,” follows the lives of U.S. Navy Seals as they embark on a mission to stop terrorist attacks on the U.S.

With great direction, the film delivers highly advanced action scenes, which allowed the audience to feel for Navy Seals.

Aside from the fact that the film did an excellent job of delivering its action scenes, “Act of Valor” does not venture far from any other war film I have seen.

Its basic anti-terrorism defense plot was expected, preventing it from becoming anything original. The plot line follows a modern day Navy Seal who leaves his pregnant wife to help stop a terrorist attack from bombing several major cities across the U.S.

The lack of originality gives no sudden twists, leaving the plot line predictable.

On another note, the film does an adequate job of creating suspense throughout; it allowed me to have a better understanding of what an American hero must endure in order to protect his country.

While the “Act of Valor” shines through its realistic action scenes, it fails to provide any real emotion from the actors outside their area of expertise--the field.

Because the acting was not at its peak, it prevented me from feeling connected to each character, which was by far the films biggest downfall, causing it to lose credibility as a tribute to Navy Seals who have lost their lives in battle.

Overall, despite its lack of originality and powerful acting, the film provided powerful scenes that do exactly what is expected of a war based action film, making “Act of Valor” decent enough to check out.

10A&EMarch 2, 2012Spokesman

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Artists to look for

‘Act of Valor’ fails to overcome lack of emotions, originality

Robert Perales

Paradise Fears consists of Sam Miller, Cole Andre, Jordan Merrigan, Michael Walker, Marcus Sand and Lucas Zimmerman; the boys come from Vermillion, South Dakota. They are an independent band who finance, write and promote themselves.

Latest Album: Yours Truly (Jun. 14, 2011)What’s next: Hosting private parties for fans who e-mail and schedule them

Elizabeth Woolridge Grant goes by the stage name “Lana Del Rey.” Del Rey comes from New York City. Her music falls into the indie pop genre. She has a joint contract with Interscope and Polydor.

Latest Album: Born to Die (Jan. 31, 2012)What’s next: Born to Die (Deluxe Edition) is now at Target

Wouter De Backer goes by the stage name “Gotye.” He releases his albums independentally. He also takes part in a three person band, The Basics, and plays indie-rock music as Gotye.

Latest Album: Eyes Wide Opened (Dec. 6, 2011)What’s Next: On tour with Kimbra and Moved to Aragon

Male Artist: Gotye

Female Artist: Lana Del Rey

Band: Paradise Fears

Information and infographic by Krista Sanford

Movie: “Act of Valor”Rating: RRelease Date: Feb. 24Genre: Action

See it twiceRent on DVD

Don’t bother Watch it once

Bolded events = school events

March 4: -Annual Dance for Life’s Next Generation-Band Concert

March 2: Project X“The Lorax IMAX 3D” (Movie)

March 6: “Where it Began” by Ann Redisch Stampler (Book)

March 8: District 214 Honors Music Festival

March 10: Orchesis performs “Flow” at the closing Gala for the National High School Dance Festival

March 13: We All Raise Our Voices to the Air by the Decemberists (Album)

March 12: Choir Concert

March 15: Orchestra Concert

March 16: Fortune by Chris Brown (Album)

March 19: Honors Music Recital

March 23: “The Hunger Games” (Movie)

March 26: MDNA by Madonna (Album)

Students make postersto represent the themes for this summer.

Artist: Michael Ciavarella, seniorTheme: Overcoming Adversity“I tried to make the poster more humorous to connect with the student body more.”

Artist: Fonzy Noveron, seniorTheme: When We Stand Together“I incorperated just the people who I saw that have made a change.”

Artist: Bart Basara, seniorTheme: It’s the End of the World as We Know ItRebeccah Sliver, art teacher, chose Basara to make this design because of his work in AP Art.

Infographic by Michael Ciavarella

Graphic Headline by Michael Ciavarella

April 19, 20, 21: “Beauty and the Beast” Musical

Gaby NajeraAssociate Editor

11SportsMarch 2, 2012Spokesman

Girls’ basketball makes IHSA history

Top Right: Angela Wallen, Rachel Albrecht, Kay Saguiped, Randi Shapiro and Natalie Parada, seniors, encourage the crowd during the Super-Sectional.Above: Jessi Zuba, junior, guards one of Loyola Academy’s players. Zuba scored six points during the game. The Wildcats lost 43-41.

“We are the first team in IHSA history to make it to Super Sectionals with a losing streak,” Julissa Hernandez, math teacher and varsity coach, said.

The varsity girls began their season with a 1-14 record; however, they stuck together and reached the Class 4A Elite Eight.

“It’s crazy. I never thought it would happen. It was definitely memorable,” Hannah Dobrowski, freshman, said. “Having it happen as a freshman is unbelievable.”

On Feb. 27, they played against Loyola Academy at Stevenson High School for Super Sectionals.

“I know the season was hard on the girls, their families, and the coaching staff,” Coach Hernandez said. “No one wants to begin the season how we

started, but everyone wants to end the season like we did. I truly believe going through the hardships we went through the first half of the season got us to where we are today.”

The girls, according to Coach Hernandez, “stuck together” and used any negative energy from “outsiders” as motivation.

“After we figured out we had chemistry together, we were able to work better as a team,” Dobrowski said.

Even though they lost 43-41, Leah Malsom, senior, feels happy with the ending results.

“Looking back at our season, it was amazing that we made it all the way to Super Sectionals,” Malsom said.

Burke coaches badminton

Mike Burke, English teacher, will take over as head badminton coach for the Spring 2012 season.

Carrie Mattingly, history teacher and badminton coach, offered the position to Coach Burke, and he said he took the position because “he saw the opportunity and always thought badminton was interesting.”

“What I enjoy is not coaching any specific sport, but coaching in general. Coaching broadens my experiences and appreciation for all sports,” Coach Burke said.

Aside from coaching badminton, Coach Burke has also coached debate, boxing, track and football.

“There will be a crossover between badminton and debate, but I will work that out with Ms. (Wendy) Relich (English Teacher) and Mr. (Mike) Hurley (English Teacher),” Coach Burke said. “Boxing is in the fall so that wont be a conflict. The only conflict I have is having time to grade my AP papers.”

Coach Burke plans to use a new approach. The girls will train together and will work to reach the varsity spots.

“The season is definitely going to be different because Mr. Burke is going to push us, and he has been telling us we will be working more on technique instead of just winning,” Natalie Arana, junior, said.

Most of Coach Burke’s players have had him as a teacher or are currently his students.

“I am excited for a new coach, especially Mr. Burke because I have him as a teacher, and it will be interesting to see the differences and similarities in his teaching and coaching,” Rachel Godlewski, junior, said.

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Boys’ track 8 a.m. tomorrow at Maine EastWinter Sports Awards 7 p.m. on March 5 Sportswhs

upcoming events Volume 48 Issue 6 March 2, 2012

Winter sports athletes reminisce on season memories

“The Buffalo Grove competition. We killed it that day. It was our best perfor-mance, and it gave us confidence we had the potential to be great,” Angela Wallen, senior, said.

“Our Christmas party was one of the days we had practice, and we could just hang out and not worry about anything,” Sam Nowry, junior, said.

“It was our last year. We really came together, even though half the team were seniors,” Scott Stef-fens, senior, said.

“Beating Elk Grove. So far it’s our only conference win and it was our first win,” Kevin Leska, senior, said.

“Sectionals be-cause I made a new record, and the team had a lot of fun,” Simon Milstain, freshman, said.

“When we went to Regionals. It was the best for me, and we did good as a team,” Annah Meinzter, sopho-more, said.

Design by Daniel Brount.Information gathered by Jennie Alcantar, Daniel Brount, Jessie Livingston, Krista Sanford, Gaby Najera and Valerie Westin. Photos by Daniel Brount, Valerie Westin.

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Boys’ Swimming and DivingMSL Final Record: 1-3-1Eighth at Conference meetFive top twelve finishes in the individual events Two top 6 relay finishes

Bryce Maczko, sophomore, placed fourth in the 100 freestyleEthan Rosengarden, Mike Boom, seniors; Lukasz Szczepaniec, junior; and Maczko placed sixth in the 200 free relay

Girls’ GymnasticsPlaced third at Regionals with a score of 119.725

Girls’ BasketballThe girls’ basketball competed at the Supersec-tional against Loyola Academy on Feb. 27. Read more on page 11.

Boys’ WrestlingLeo Giordano, Igor Romanowski and Eddie Scanlon, seniors, qualified for the Sectionals competition.Romanowski and Scanlon qualified for State.

CheerleadingPlaced in the top 10 of 16 teams at the Buffalo Grove competition

Boys’ BasketballFinal Record: 2-24

Girls’ BowlingFinal Record: 6-1011th place overall in MSLPlaced 14th at Sectionals with a total of 4005 pins.

“Turning heads and making it far in the State tournament when no one ex-pected much from us,” Leah Malsom, senior, said.

Records and Results