May Issue by Corona del Sol Sunrise

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senior superlatives may

2012

So what ar e senior su perlative T h e s e n io r cl a s? ss vot ed i n t h e t h e re s u lt s we re cou nt ed a n ir En g li s h cl a ss e s, dt g ra d u at i n g cl a ss o f 2012 h e wi n n e rs o f t h e a re I ss u e pa g e s 1 , 2 a n d 4. C o li st ed o n Se n io r n g rat u l at io n s t h e wi n n e rs! t o a ll

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d e t n e l Ta t s o M

AVER Y MO & SS JENN A HA RDEN BRO

JESS ICA & SEE GER ZAC H RO SEB RUG H

M o st be on Li k e ly t o a rea li t s h ow y T V

AZZONE T S Y E T PE & SHU IRENE A

CYN & DIA YU AND RUS PEA T

M o st Be a Li k e ly t o Millio n a i re

CdS Sunrise • May 2012

2 • Senior Issue

senior superlatives W

r a C o rst

ZIMM N I T US

J ESSY N H G & HAU S Y HALE

Be st Ca r

BRADY ROLAND & MEGAN BENSON

Best Bromance

& OR KEH PAR OE KER LEE

d e t i r i p S t Mos

ROBBY CHOUEIRI & AUDREY WHEELESS

May 2012 Vol. 34 No. 9 Corona del Sol High School Tempe, AZ Visit online at cdssunrise.com

SUNRISE

newspaper

A wrap-up of the biggest accomplishments, changes and trends of the 2011-2012 school year.

t h e yr e ae r i v n

r e v1 i i 4 e e 5 w w

THREE ACCOMPLISHMENTS

BASKETBALL

The varsity boy’s basketball team met expectations by wining the Division 1 State Championship in February with a 66-53 victory over Cesar Chavez.

PERCUSSION

Percussion placed sixth at the WGI World Competition in April with the performance of their Rush show, setting a new record for the percussion program.

COMP GOV.

Hard work led the team to the national We the People Competition in Washington, D.C. two weeks ago. They team competed against 50 other teams and had the opportunity to visit many of the locations that they studied throughout the year.

FIVE CHANGES

principal This year Corona welcomed new principal and former Marcos de Niza Assistant Principal Brent Brown. He will return to lead the Aztecs next year.

2synergy 3soda sales The new year started off with a new grading system. This grading system has proved to be efﬁcient and easy for everyone to use.

Football Coach

Corona hired new football Coach Tom Joseph. The boys ﬁnished the season 5-5, but spring football training is underway and Joseph will return to coach the Aztecs next year.

Sodas are no longer being sold during lunch hours, and both students and clubs have been prohibited from selling food due to national nutrition guidelines and competition with the cafeteria.

SEVEN TRENDS

HASH TAGS MEMES INSTAGRAM

dances

Student Council and administration struggled to reach compromise over the amount of dances based on factors including money and appropriate behavior. The Charity Dance and Back to School Dance were added, while MORP, Coronation and Hoopcoming were cut.

YOLO

SAYING “SWAG” SNAPBACKS BRO TANKS

Percussion photo courtesy of Yearbook. Comp. Gov. photo courtesy of BEN FORBES. Football coach by COLIN McCORMICK. Soda photo by PATRICK BUCK. All others are FILE PHOTOS.

Athletic and academic scholarships

Staff Editorial on campus food options

Tennis player is a four time state champ

A look at both common and unique scholarships seniors received. Also, see which athletes that are moving on to the D1 through college level.

One of the controversies facing Corona students is students and clubs selling food at lunch. Find out what the Sunrise staff has to say about this issue.

Senior Alex Lawson captures his fourth consecutive State Championship. Read about his strategy and what it feels like to be No. 1 four times.

more on page 12...

2 • Life & Times

CdS Sunrise • May 2012

Retired photography teacher passes away LIZ CHENEY Staff Writer

On April 26, one of Corona’s former teachers, Lisa Henschen Wood, passed away from an accidental drowning in her home. “Her passing has been quite devastating to those of us who loved her and respected her,” teacher Jan O’Malley said. “She will be missed very much, as a friend, mentor and person.” Wood retired last year from her teaching job at Corona. She has taught every type of visual arts including Art and Design, Drawing and Painting, Honors Art, Ceramics, Photography and Computer Graphics. “Lisa retired after almost 30 years of teaching to spend time with her family (husband, kids and grandkids) and to travel,” art teacher Sarah Chelton said. Wood impacted her former students and coworkers at Corona. “I think her impact on students was always believing in them and knowing that they could do better than what they thought possible,” Chelton said. “She was always pushing her students and the people she worked with to do something more because she knew they had it in them.” After retiring, Wood left some big shoes to fill. Chelton, who took over her position, has nothing but positive words regarding Wood. “She was a teacher who expected, and received, the best from her students,” Chelton said. “I know she was still in contact with many

of her past students and many who had become professional photographers and artists. She always had something going on: art shows, experimenting with new equipment, or art for the community. She was never the type to sit and be content with what was going on. She was always learning and experiencing something new. She thrived on new adventures and situations.” Wood will remembered fondly. “I will just remember the times spent just discussing our trials and tribulations in the classroom as educators,” O’Malley said. “We talked about how we wondered why we wanted the students to be better than they wanted to be. Mrs. Wood was very supportive of our Unity club here at Corona and would always donate her tax credit money to our club so that our Aztectown camp and Awareness Days would be supported monetarily. She truly believed in the greatness of every person and that everyone had potential.” Wood was a person of admirable character who will be greatly missed. “She was passionate about everything she did, whether it was teaching, cooking, traveling, learning, creating art or spending time with her family,” Chelton said. “She wore her heart on her sleeve and she wasn’t afraid to let people DEVIKA SHARAN know how much she cared. She was a woman with many different talents, hobbies, interests A memorial to Lisa Henschen Wood was set up in Corona del Sol’s front ofand passions and I think we are all better for fice. Wood, a longtime Corona and Tempe Union High School District art and photography teacher, passed away unexpectedly April 26. having known her. She will be missed.” ®

May 2012 • CdS Sunrise

Life & Times • 3

coronadelsol

Baccalaureate celebrates graduates

Fast Fact DEVIKA SHARAN Staff Writer

If anyone has ever attended a Corona del Sol graduation ceremony, they may have noticed how smoothly and quickly it runs. However, it wasn’t always like that. Before 2000, graduation used to last at least two hours with more than the usual hiccups. “In 1999 was when they decided to have golf balls thrown when going up to get their diplomas,” teacher-librarian Justine Centanni said. Then after 2000, rules were implemented to help make graduation run a little more smoothly. “We emphasize that it’s a ceremony and not a celebration, and it’s supposed to be dignified,” Centanni said. Those in charge of the graduation ceremony, making sure everything runs as planned, include Centanni and guidance counselor Angela Carter. “We’re like the wedding planners of graduation,” Centanni said. When students try to plan a prank now, it normally has to be something small so that it can be easily hidden. “They (the graduates) are supposed to come with their gowns off so we can see any anomalies,” Carter said.

In order for the graduation ceremony to run smoothly and end quickly there are many rules that the graduates must follow. For example, if they do not show up to the rehearsal, they are not allowed to participate in the ceremony. “You need to know what you’re supposed to do and we need to know who is going,” Centanni said. In previous years, before the rules were implemented, graduation used to run extra long so that by the time it was over, it was time for the graduates to leave for grad night and they weren’t able to spend time with their families. “In one hour, a lot gets done: students’ names are read, the choir sings, the speakers talk and the principal gives his speech,” Centanni said. Before 2000, there was no definite dress code so students would show up in all different attire. “We decided to come up with a dress code because we saw people coming in inappropriate attire,” Carter said. “I liken it to a dance. You dress the part, you feel the part.” Now if a student were to attend the graduation ceremonies as one in the crowd, they would see a well-oiled machine that finishes within a certain time frame without being too long. “It’s highly organized because we are trying to organize and execute a dignified ceremony for over 500 graduates and their entire families,” Centanni said.®

DEVIKA SHARAN Staff Writer

Every year Corona holds a different type of graduation ceremony called Baccalaureate, which is held the Sunday before the actual graduation day. This year it’s on Sunday May 20, 2012 at 5:00 p.m. in the auditorium. “It’s a celebration which honors graduating seniors; often, but not necessarily always, it is an interreligious ceremony,” teacher-librarian Justine Centanni said. It has been held at Corona every year since Corona was built. However, it is optional for anyone who would like to attend. “It’s an old old tradition, but we’re the only ones in the district who still hold it. Years ago it used to be mandatory,” design teacher Diana Occhiuzzi said. Baccalaureate doesn’t necessarily focus on only religion, but other sides of a person’s beliefs. “It’s a celebration of your faith and spirituality,” Occhiuzzi said. At the ceremony there are four speakers representing a few different faiths of Corona who give a speech. “In addition, there is some talent that is showcased. We’ve had dancers and original stuff written,” Centanni said. Baccalaureate focuses on being a good person and making the right choices in life. “You’ve reached a point in your life where you’re moving ahead,” Centanni said. “It’s usually just the thought of being a good person. It’s kind of like a pep talk in a way” Usually the ceremony lasts an hour and there are refreshments afterwards. ®

CHRISTINA CANNELL Accounting Major

“My decision to attend community college was a dream finally realized. The idea of re-entering school was a scary decision for me, but the level of support and encouragement from the faculty and staff played a key role in my success.”

SCAN ME the college of you. An EEO/AA institution.

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FOR SuMMER/FALL 2012 www.CgC.Edu

CdS Sunrise • May 2012

4 • Life & Times

Competition Government competes in D.C. WILL MORGAN Online Editor-in-Chief

From April 27 to May 2 the CdS Competition Government team traveled to Washington D.C. for the opportunity to participate in the national We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution competition. The team consists of 29 seniors who are divided into six separate units that cover philosophy, the Bill of Rights and the Constitution as it’s applied in modern times and other related topics. At the competition, each of the six units was expected to conduct a hearing based on three different topics. Each hearing consists of a four-minute opening statement presented by the panel of students, which is then followed by six minutes of questions from a panel of judges. The judges consist of elected officials and or their staff, noted scholars, Federal Judges and other members of the community. The

Photo courtesy of BEN FORBES

Government students and teacher Tim Smith sit on the steps of the Jefferson Memorial bulding. Construction started in 1939 and ended in 1943 which the total cost was 3 million dollars.

topics for the simulated hearings include a wide rage of topics from the origin of higher law, to the development of the National surveillance state. The first two qualifying rounds of the competition took place on April 28th and 29th at George Mason University, and the final ten teams competed on April 30th on Capitol Hill. The Competition Government team had the opportunity to travel to the nation’s capital because of their exceptional performance at the state finals and their diligent attitude. “Class periods were mainly spent in the library where our units would work together as groups to prepare,” team member Nitin Gupta said. However, the entire trip did not revolve around Photo courtesy of BEN FORBES the national competition; the team also went to see Students Hirsh Shah, Grace Augee, Thaminda Edirisooriya, Anni Faucon and Lauren Balconi compete in their hearing. the Arlington National Cemetery and Mount Vernon, along with many other sites. Unit four discussed the topic of congress and its functions.

“There was something unique everyday that we were able to see,” member Robert Choueiri stated. Instructor Tim Smith has been mentoring Competition Government teams on campus for eighteen years now and is known for inspiring his students to respect and understand the American Constitution. As shown by the numerous state and city titles, Smith is the foundation for this excelling program. However, Smith understands that he can’t do it alone. “I would like to recognize my coaches, Mrs. Adams, Mrs. Centanni and Mr. Forbes for sacrificing their time to help the students prepare for the finals; I couldn’t do it without them,” Smith said. Smith further stated that, “(for next year’s team) I want to get the team to join for a common cause, so that we can win the district and state competitions and represent the state in the national competition.”®

Photo courtesy of BEN FORBES

Matt Lim, Ben Murphy, Steven Womer and Ben Miller pretending to jump into the water. They jumped across the way from the Washington Monument.

DECA students compete in Nationals GRADY DOUGLAS News Editor

Virgin Records CEO Richard Branson once said, “Business opportunities are like buses, there’s always another one coming.” And DECA competition’s are all about business. The Corona DECA club went to nationals in Salt Lake City, Utah April 27 to May 2. “DECA competitions have several activities for us to choose from,” said DECA sponsor Mike Lohmann said. “There were a lot of mandatory activities like opening and closing ceremonies.”

Students that went included sophomore Shimoli Shah, juniors Tim Brenden and Kyle Einstein, and seniors Gabe Encinas, Mitch Marois and Mitch Thomas. Shah, Brenden and Einsteins’ competition was “Entrepreneurship Written.” Encinas, Marois and Thomas’ competition was “Sports and Entertainment Operations Research.” “It was a blast,” Encinas said. “Unfortunately we did not place in nationals however we did place in state.” Students placing in nationals earn scholarships “We had some students who were also in CdS Fishing Club so we tried out some trout fishing, in Salt Lake City” Lohmann said. “Unfortunately the fish won this time; we didn’t catch anything.” ®

May 2012 • CdS Sunrise

Life & Times • 5

SENIOR MEMO “One of my favorite memories was bringing the foreign exchange students, from the Tempe Sister Cities program, to school .” -NINA AMELI “My favorite senior memory is when I ramped Nicole Giannonatti’s car over a curb and caught some air.”

-MORGAN JENSEN

-BRADY ROLAND

“

“Spring break was my favorite senior memory; I got to go to Mission Beach, California with friends.” -NICKI SAWICKI

seniors pass on

“The best memory was winning Basha relay for the fourth year in a row. We were undefeated at the meet all throughout high school.” -LIANNE KLINE & DANA MCKENZIE

wisdom

“

“The bonfire was winding down and we took over the booth where you pie teachers in the face. There was so much whipped cream left over and suddenly a huge group of kids were grabbing cans and filling up pie pans. And then the fight was on. Not a single one of our friends left the bonfire without whipped cream all over them. It was a blast!”

IES 2 1

Enjoy your time with your friends; go on trips with them, go out on the weekends, take advantage of still being able to have a lot more freedom than your previous high school years but without having real life, adult responsibilities.

Don’t give up hope. Don’t give up on your passion. You only have four years to do everything that you have ever wanted and one more year before you enter the real world. Keep going and do the best you possibly think you can do before you realize you don’t have any time left.

Make sure you keep your grades up and your head on straight because it will be over before you know it.

Participate in everything you can because you will regret not doing so in the end.

-ALIX LOIRE

-DRAKE BROCKWAY

-STEVEN WOMER

-JAMIE THOMASIAN

Photos by NADINE SALAMEH

6 â&#x20AC;˘ Scholarships

CdS Sunrise â&#x20AC;˘ May 2012

Division I athletes give a

T O H S P A N

Football

Calaen Robinson

Basketball

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Dana Mckenzie

Track and field

Avery Moss

Football

United States Military Academy, West Point

Andrus Peat

Tennis

Arizona State University

Stanford University

Ice Hockey

Alex Lawson

of their futures

Arizona State University

Kaliya Johnson

University of Notre Dame

Boston University

Information on this page was gathered from coaches and the guidence office. We sincerely apologize to any athletes who were omitted.

Abby Spiel

Softball

Paige Vallejos

Softball

Division II, NAIA, Division III and Community College athletes moving on next year: Dominic Mercurio Menlo College | Football

London Brewster Cochise College | Soccer

Zack Hamm Mesa State University | Football Nicolette Newcomb Minot State University | Soccer

Nicholas Woods Phoenix College | Football

Hallee Ahler Chandler-Gilbert Community College | Soccer

Katie Koponen Phoenix College | Softball

Alexa Moser Ft. Lewis College | Volleyball

Kayla Ronda LeTourneau University | Volleyball

Brooke Taylor St. Cloud State University | Golf

Lani Redmond Phoenix College | Softball

Photos by PATRICK BUCK

May 2012 • CdS Sunrise

Scholarships • 7

class of ‘12

Academic Achievements Seniors eligible for $15 million worth of scholarships JOSH AMBRE Copy Editor

Although scholarships of all sorts are awarded to Corona students year after year, perhaps some of the most prestigious and valuable of these awards fall under the category of academic scholarships. They are based on a variety of factors including the applicant’s GPA, SAT/ ACT testing scores and other scholarly awards. While these scholarships carry hefty prerequisites, the boundless educational beneﬁts they offer students are often well worth the work. Among this year’s senior academic scholarships are the ASU Dean’s award which offers $11,000 for four years, the ASU President’s scholarship with $36,000 for four years and the ASU Provost scholarship which provides $30,000 for four years. The University of Arizona also features an academic scholarship, U of A Wildcat Excellence award,

Robby Choueiri

Sherae Dewitt

ASU Leadership Choueiri will be attending the Barrett honors college and was awarded $18,370 for four years. He had to do community service, demonstrate leadership, have a 3.5 GPA and do well on the SAT.

Michelle Bulriss

Trustee Distinguished Scholar

She’ll be attending school in Houston, Texas. She gets $104,000 for tuition and $72,000 for all four years. Eligablity was based on academic achivement and leadership.

“

which grants varying amounts of money. As for Northern Arizona University, there is the NAU Dean that provides $28,000 for four years, the NAU Merit offering $20,000 for four years and the NAU President with an amount of $48,000 for four years. Finally, the AIMS Tuition waiver covers full in-state tuition for the class of 2012 only. The requirements for these scholarships vary greatly depending on the GPA of the student, but each has the potential to beneﬁt students greatly as they move on to college. Just this year, seniors have been offered more than $15 million in academic scholarships at Corona alone, a number that clearly displays the impact these academic scholarships can have on students who receive them. Guidance counselor Angela Carter is especially proud of theses statistics. “We are very proud about the graduating seniors and their outstanding achievements,” Carter said. “This is evidence of all their diligence and persistence.” 

Pilgrim’s Scholarship among others

Bulriss will be attending school in Ohio on her scholarship of $14,000. She had to maintain a 3.5 GPA, have a SAT score of 1090 excluding writing and undergo many interviews.

Ernest Bulkholder

Carli Giese & Lauren Kelly

Army ROTC He will recieve a sholarship of three to four years tuition, books, required fees and a monthly stipend. Burkholder had to have good grades, show leadership and pass a medical exam and physical test.

ASU-Herberger Institute for the Arts Both girls recieved a scholarship to Arizona State based on their artistic abilities. The scholarship is worth $3,000.

*These are just a few feautred scholarship recipients. For a complete list, see the graduation program.

“As a first year principal at Corona del Sol High School, it never ceases to amaze me the quality of students we have here on this campus. For the senior class to be going out with roughly $15 million worth of scholarships, proves just how good these students really are. Through hard work and dedication, we can all be very proud of the accomplishments of our graduating class. A big thanks goes out to the parents of these students and to the Corona staff that helped each of them along the way. Graduates of 2012...Congratulations!”

27 NAU Merit

NAU Presidential 33

19 NAU Dean’s

U of A Wildcat Excellence

39ASU Dean’s ASU Presidential 26 19ASU Provost

-Principal Brent Brown

97 AIMS tuition waiver scholarships

Photos by COLIN

8 • Life & Times

Cds Sunrise • May 2012

Corona faculty, staff prepare to retire

“

LIZ CHENEY

College discounts aid students JOSH AMBRE Copy Editor

Among the numerous expenses college-bound students must sacrifice their often meager budgets to pay, school supplies are one that is often overlooked. Though often eclipsed by the shadow of the cost of classes, food and of course the college tuition itself, school supplies such as textbooks and computers are still of monumental importance. Just like the other expenses however, college supplies can still make a hefty dent in a student’s budget. Fortunately for today’s students however, there are a wide variety of discounts available to remove some stress from your college budget. Apple Store for Education: Sponsored by Apple, this unique discount option is one that will appeal not only to Mac lovers, but to any student interested in saving money for school. Apple offers special education discounts on computers for college students, parents purchasing computers for a college student, or high school students that have been accepted into a college. By filling out an application on the Apple Store for Education website, those eligible can receive up to a $200 discount on

“

It (Corona) has really allowed me to expand my design program

It is the nicest and most dedicated group of people I have ever worked with

Elaine Alder working at her desk in the registrar’s office.

education, she will be continuing on with another business. “I have my own design business, and I’m looking forward to working on that,” Occhiuzzi said. Olsen has been with Corona for six years and in the district for 22 years working as a principal’s assistant. “Working with everybody in the office is really great,” Olsen said. “I love the kindness of a lot of the teachers.” Not only retiring from Corona, Olsen is leaving behind any other full time jobs. “I am ready to slow the pace of my life down a little and do some things I haven’t had time for,” Olsen said. “Painting my house, craft projects, spending lots of time with my grandchildren.”®

desktops, laptops and other Apple software. Textbook Discounts: Perhaps the most essential and pricey of common college expenses, textbooks can often feel like a waste of money due to the fact that these books are only used by students while in college. Thanks to the nearly limitless capabilities of the Internet however, students now have the option of textbook websites through which they can buy, sell, or rent textbooks. Some of these sites include www.ecampus. com, www.bookbyte.com and www. bookfinder.com. For students that are not comfortable obtaining textbooks over the Internet, there are also many options for renting textbooks via the university. ASU for example, offers an increasingly diverse variety of rental textbooks in response to the growing popularity of textbook renting, and many other universities are heading in a similar direction.® Other companies offering discounts: Geico Foot Locker 24hour Fitness AT&T Amazon Jiffy Lube J.Crew T-Mobile Subway Qdoba

I am ready to slow the pace of my life down a little

“

This year, Corona del Sol bids farewell to a part of its staff: Elaine Adler, Diana Occhiuzzi and Shari Olsen are all retiring at the end of the school year. Adler has been working in the Corona office for years as help to Registrar Holly Secor. “I have been here 15 years and at the district for 25,” Adler said. Adler has enjoyed working with her fellow administration for the years she has worked at Corona. “It is the nicest and most dedicated group of people I have ever worked with,” Adler said. “And the people I work with make it a pleasure coming to

work everyday.” Occhiuzzi has worked not only at Corona for many years, but in education for a very long time. Occhiuzzi has been the design teacher at Corona, but she also helped found the Style Club. “It (Corona) has really allowed me to expand my design program,” Occhiuzzi said. “With the help of another student, I was able to create the first Style Club here at Corona.” Once she has retired she will not be back which is unusual, considering many teachers end up working as a substitute. “I have been in education for 40 years and I know it’s time,” Occhiuzzi said. “Once I leave education, I’m leaving everything here.” However, even though Occhiuzzi is leaving

Diana Occhiuzzi poses next to her fashion mannequins.

LIZ CHENEY

“

DEVIKA SHARAN Online Content Editor

Shari Olsen in her office working as the principal’s administrative assistant.

May 2012 • CdS Sunrise

Life & Times • 9

Student gets to spend senior year in Bosnia Preslie HirsCh Editor-In-Chief

“I was in my third hour and I got called to the attendance office and I thought something was wrong, because I miss a lot of school. My whole family was there and my little sister was crying and I thought someone died,” junior Savannah Wooten said. “And my mom said ‘tell her, tell her!’ And my sister said, ‘you’re going to Bosnia!” After the months of lengthy applications, painstaking preparation, intense interviews and nervously waiting by the computer and telephone, Wooten was informed on April 13 she’s been accepted to the Kennedy-Lugar YES Abroad program, a program which “after 9/11 sends kids to establish good relationships with Muslim countries,” Wooten said. This opportunity is different than Sister Cities or other common exchange programs because she will be gone for an entire school year. She’ll attend classes and engulf herself in the culture, language, dress, religious practices and all. Wooten will not be returning to Corona, a reality that’s hard to grasp so close to the end of the year, and now, her high school experience. She only has two credits left to graduate, both of which will be completed this summer and in Bosnia. When the final interview was done, Wooten was anxious for the results. The announcement changed her life not only in high school, but also for the next year and beyond. “The waiting was the hardest part, honestly. I didn’t know whether or not I’d be here next year, so I had to fill out my schedule and I didn’t even know if I’d be in the country,” Wooten said. “I had all these opportunities: I was going to be in Comp Gov, [cdstv], Journalism–I had to plan for both. For me, I really didn’t know if I was going to get picked because I just applied and waited and waited. As soon as I found out I was semifinalist it was like ‘oh, the chances are different now.’” Even though it’s been a few weeks since Wooten was selected on April 13 as one of 55 Americans going to a Muslim country, it’s not getting any easier for her to leave the school she was prepared to leave in four years, not three. “It’s hard. For me it’s like everything is my last. My last assembly, I’m only going to prom once, for graduation I don’t know if I’ll be able to walk be-

cause I don’t know when my departure time is and when I get back,” Wooten said. “It’s really hard with my friends and people saying ‘oh you’re leaving us for a year.’ People take it personally. I have this list of things I want to do in high school and I would put things off until my senior year. Things I want to tell people or want to accomplish and now I have literally have a month to do everything I wanted to do in high school. But I feel like it’s always that way even if I was a senior, I think you’re always kind of that way to a point. But being a junior is harder because I wasn’t planning on leaving so suddenly.” Though the shock is still setting in, due to her adventurous personality and previous experience with camps such as being an Aztectown counselor, she’s

COLIN MCCORMICK

adjusting quickly. “For the most part, I’ve always been ready to get up and go do something,” Wooten said. “I’m probably more suited than some high schoolers because some people don’t want to leave Corona ever, but I do want to leave.” Wooten has two little sisters and a mother and father; the family is going to have to adapt to 12 months without their eldest daughter. “We want to keep her with us forever,” Savannah’s mom, Lisa, said. “But we know that is not possible, and although we will miss her, we believe she will have a wonderful experience and we wouldn’t ask her to miss it.”

Some people are concerned about the safety aspect of Savannah living in Bosnia. After all, the country did just get out of a civil war in the mid-90’s. “Sometimes there is violence against the two or three ethnicities, but for the most part it’s seems to be pretty safe,” Wooten said. “If anything happens, the US Department of State steps in. There were kids in Egypt during the big rebellion, and they were just pulled out instantly.” Savannah admits she is worried about being contacted by her peers, as she doesn’t want to lose touch or be quickly forgotten by her loved ones. “I definitely get to use the Internet once a week at an Internet café. I should be able to Skype and Facebook; I’m starting a travel blog. It’s not like I’m disappearing off the face of the earth; I’ll be in contact, just not as much,” Wooten said. “But they don’t want you to use it as a crutch. People get culture shock and rely on the Internet looking for hours at what their friends are doing in English. If they see you’re on there too much, then the host family will report it.” She is asked to keep a blog of her adventures and day-to-day life, and that can be found on http:// agreatmove.tumblr.com/. She has already started it featuring history of the small country (about the size of West Virginia) and pictures of the lifestyle. Something that may be hard for the average teenager to imagine is packing enough clothes for a year. Especially in the high of 60-degree weather and immense amount of snow Bosnia receives. “The US Department of State pays for everything, and they pay for one suitcase…one checked bag,” Wooten said. “I’ve really had to consider what I’m going to take and how I’m going to take it. Bosnia is pretty reliable with the mail, so my mom will probably send me things too. I’ll have things brought in, bring things myself and buy things there.” Wooten departs for her trip on Aug. 15. “I think Savannah will do a fantastic job of representing the U.S. She brings a lot of joy into our lives on a daily basis, and I think she will be a positive influence wherever she goes,” Lisa said. “The entire experience is exciting, really,” Savannah said. “I don’t know what to expect yet, but I’m excited for all of it.”® For more, including information on the culture in Bosnia, check out cdssunrise.com.

Programs for students to travel abroad Stephanie Dayton Life & Times Editor

Every year many students travel abroad to countries such as England, France, Germany, Spain, New Zealand and many other places in Europe. This opportunity is offered to them either from the multiple programs around the state or through their parents paying for them to go over. Many students apply for Tempe Sister Cities, an exchange program which allows them to spend a few weeks in another country before hosting a student. They go through a long application process then they have to be interviewed. “I really love traveling and when I heard about Tempe Sister Cities I wanted to apply right away,” said junior Hallie Swenson who will be visiting New Zealand. “It’s so much fun to learn about different countries and their cultures.” Being a part of the programs like TSC allows students to learn about other countries, their cultures, meet new people and learn new things. “I really hope that the experience will make me more aware of other cultures,” said junior Nathaniel Kroger who will also be visiting New Zealand. The Tempe Sister Cities program isn’t the only one that offers the experience. Programs such as Chandler Sister Cities and Phoenix Sister Cities also offer the opportunity to take a trip of a lifetime. CSC allows applicants to visit Tullamore, Ireland and PSC sends applicants to Canada, Italy, China, Ireland, France, Mex-

ico, Japan, Czech Republic, Israel and Taiwan. If you don’t qualify for any of those programs you can apply to be a part of the German exchange program on campus. The program was started in 1987 by foreign language teacher Judy Fullerton. She had taken a trip over with the McClintock High School exchange program and really enjoyed it, so she decided to start the program at Corona. Students who get accepted into the program get to host a German student for three weeks and then over the summer the students who hosted will go over to Germany for four weeks. “My favorite part of the program is that the kids get to see another side of Germany and they get to things that German kids get to do,” Fullerton said. Applications for this program are available in the fall. Some attractions the program have visited to do in the past include museums, churches, concentration camps and the Berlin Wall. The only requirements to apply for it is that you have room to host an exchange student and be willing. There are many programs offered to allow you to go overseas and have an experience of a lifetime. Some are more expensive than others but there is a program out there for students who wish to go. You can be a part of Tempe Sister Cities, Chandler Sister Cities, Phoenix Sister Cities and the German Exchange program and see a different culture and meet all kinds of people from all around the world.®

10 • Special Feature

CdS Sunrise • May 2012

valedictorians

LIZ CHENEY | Staff Writer Out of Corona’s top academic students, six excel above the rest. This year Corona is recognizing six valedictorians. It’s not an easy feat being the top student in your class; it takes a lot of work. Check out the boxes below to learn more about your 2012 Valedictorians.

CYNDIA YU

MICHAEL KIM What are your plans after high school? I’m going to be attending Harvard in the fall. Was it a goal of yours to become valedictorian? Not really. It just happened. My classes just worked out. What advice do you have for students to keep their grades up? Set aside time to study. It forces you to do it faster and you’ll get it done.

What are your plans after high school? Going to ASU, majoring in Biomedical Engineering. What is your favorite high school memory? Mr. Trimble’s AP Bio Class. It was by far the hardest class ever. Looking back I realized that I actually learned a lot.

NITIN GUPTA

BRIANNA DUONG

What are your plans after high school? I’m going to college. University of Pennsylvania, the Warton School of Business. What advice do you have for students to keep their grades up? Don’t listen to your teachers and study during class. Make sure you do your homework during class. Just kidding, I don’t know. Study hard.

What are your plans after high school? I’m going to Barrett at ASU. Was it a goal of yours to become valedictorian? I guess, because my brother was so I felt like I should. What is your favorite high school memory? Junior year overall was my favorite. What career do you see yourself in? I plan to be an aerospace engineer.

JEAN JUANG

THAMINDA EDIRISOORIYA What are your plans after high school? I haven’t decided yet, but probably Princeton. Was it a goal of yours to become valedictorian? Somewhat; I felt like it would be important for college applications. What advice do you have for students to keep their grades up? Delete their Facebook. Bribe yourself with candy to get yourself to study.

What are your plans after high school? Going to Stanford. What advice do you have for students to keep their grades up? Don’t put things off. But, don’t live for the grades, so to speak. What career do you see yourself in? ER surgeon. What is your favorite high school memory? Playing tennis. Photos by SIERRA CRESPIN

May 2012 • CdS Sunrise

Letter from the

Editor

Dear students and staff, Well, it seems we have come to the end of the road. Prom has passed, finals are underway, sports have wrapped up and seniors are counting down until the big day. I remember getting prepared for high school, and all the adults would share their bits and pieces of wisdom, mostly consisting of “it’s going to fly by.” I distinctly remember thinking “how does four years just fly by?” But I reluctantly admit, they were absolutely right. Thinking back on high school, it’s amazing all the things you have the opportunity to participate in. All the sports events, dances, extracurricular activities and the people you met…all because you went to the same high school. Many people have high school “bucket lists” of things they want to accomplish before leaving the familiar campus. But that makes it seem like you’re trying to squeeze social achievements in before it’s too late, so to speak. But just because you’re leaving high school doesn’t mean it’s the end of the adventure; it’s really just the beginning. I always find it funny when you see students back on campus visiting teachers in August when they just graduated in May. I do adore a few of my teachers, but I hope that I’ll doing such big things, being so preoccupied and having so much fun on my new journey that I can’t come back to visit my teachers–at least, for a little while. Students always boast about how excited they are to prance across the stage in their gown among thousands of people and to get the heck out of here. But they seem to be the same ones who want to come back to hang out with their favorite staff member, or show up in front row to the next football game. I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with bleeding orange and yellow, but just don’t let the concept of graduating overtake the likely, small feeling of separation. High school is a huge part of life, there’s no doubt, but the opportunities to come are unpredictable and thrilling. It has been a wonderful year, and I feel blessed to have been appointed Editor-in-Chief of this publication. I’ve had so many laughs, as well as heated conversations, with the Sunrise staff members. We’ve done designs and stories never before tackled. We’ve put up stories within literally seconds of a state championship victory, and brought controversial issues to the student body’s attention. My articles earned me an Arizona State Journalist of the Year Runner-Up award, and the newspaper itself a fifth place Best in Show award at the national level. It’s a hard task putting together all the components that make an award-winning publication in three weeks, nine times a school year. You can see a little behind-the-scenes feature of what exactly it takes on the third page of the senior section. The staff has worked very hard, and I’m convinced there is no better adviser in all of journalism. I hope everyone has an awesome rest of the year, a safe and fulfilling graduation experience and a cool (as possible) summer. The letters won’t come from me next year, but rather Jacqui Marzocca, appointed and wellearned Editor-in-Chief for the 2012-2013 school year. Sincerely,

Preslie Hirsch

Staff Editorial

Of all the numerous adjectives used to describe school cafeteria food on an everyday basis, “essential,” “variant,” and above all, “delicious,” typically “problematic” does not rank as one of them. As obvious as this may seem, the district’s decision to prohibit the selling of food items by clubs during lunch hours calls into question not only the fairness of the district’s food policy, but also the fundamental rights of students, an issue that continues to leave a sour taste in the mouths of students and staff alike. Although the reasoning behind this policy is extensive, including competition with the cafeteria’s sales, food handling regulations from the County Health Department, as well as child nutrition standards, the restrictions of this policy have trickled down from the district level to the level of the students. Another factor that influences what can and cannot be sold as food for students is the district’s new free and reduced lunch program, which helps provide lunches to students who can’t afford them. This program, too, carries with it its own standards and regulations, which is one of the reasons that soda is no longer sold at the cafeteria due to lack of nutrition. In any case, however, by eliminating this valuable means for students and clubs to fundraise, they have unknowingly abolished one of the few liberties high school students have available to them. Though the district allows schools to foster such a diverse variety of clubs, how can it honestly expect those clubs to sustain themselves without the essential revenue brought by selling food as a means of fundraising? While one could argue that there are many other methods of obtaining the money they need, history has shown that food is

Opinions • 11

the most demanding market. Though the problems surrounding the district’s food policy are not confined to merely the obstacles it poses in the way of fundraising. Some students may recall the days when Student Council was able to hold barbecues and volleyball games to promote school spirit at Corona. This too has been prohibited by food policy since all food handlers are required by law to have certain sanitary measures in place such as a sink, gloves and health permit. While this certainly serves to prevent the contamination of food, has this come at the price of contaminating the high levels of school spirit and community that were once commonplace during these events? In spite of the controversial details of the district food policy, Principal Brent Brown has been developing some alternative solutions to this issue which may give hope to students and clubs that are looking to fundraise with food. “Next year there will be a form to be approved by the district for clubs wanting to sell food. Blocks of time will be allocated to legitimate clubs for food selling that will need to be CASSIDY KAMERMAN approved by Student Council,” Brown said. “It will be scheduled so that there will be no competition between clubs and the district can keep track of what is being sold.” Even with the prospect of a compromise on the food sale issue on the horizon, until any changes to this oppressive policy are put into action, the freedom of both students and staff to support their school by raising money for clubs and other organizations remains threatened. In our opinion as a staff, unless these changes are enacted in the near future, the food policy will continue to be a source of bitter conflict rather than sweet resolution.®

Sunrise Staff

1001 E. Knox Road • Tempe, AZ • 85284 Editor-in-Chief | Preslie Hirsch Online Editor-in-Chief | Will Morgan Managing Editor | Jacqui Marzocca Online Managing Editor | Mason Kuluris Opinions Editor Stephanie Dayton Life & Times Editor Asada Njuguna Sports Editor Audrey Wheeless Photo Editor Lilly Berkley News Editor Grady Douglas Copy Editor Josh Ambre Adviser Kris Urban

Online Content Editor Devika Sharan Online Sports Editor Omar Soussi Business Manager Cassidy Kamerman Cartoonists Cassidy Kamerman Staff Taylor Beese, Patrick Buck, Elizabeth Cheney, Sierra Crespin, Luke Frampton, Deborah Huard, Colin McCormick, Nadine Salameh, Nathan Samuels.

The Sunrise is an open forum for student expression and welcomes letters on all matters. The staff reserves the right to edit as required. All materials submitted for publication must be signed. Views and opinions contained herein are those of the author and not considered to be the opinions of the staff, adviser, administration or the Tempe Union High School District. Unsigned editorials reflect the views of the editorial board. Some material courtesy of American Society of Newspaper Editors/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service.

www.cdssunrise.com Senior Issue front page design by Jacqui Marzocca | Front page design by Preslie Hirsch

CdS Sunrise • May 2012

12 • Sports

Volleyball goes 17-0, upset in quarters Liz Cheney Staff Writer

The Corona’s boy’s volleyball team set up its 2012 season and finished with a remarkable record. The boys went 17-0 in the regular season, but fell short of their team goal of taking state, losing the tiebreaker game 15-13 against Highland on May 8 in the quarterfinals. “In the state we’re ranked No. 2 in Power Points and No.1 in AZ Central Rankings,” senior player Gabe Encinas said. Although the national ESPN High School Boy’s Volleyball Fab 50 Rankings are fluctuate frequently, they were ranked as high as No. 21 shortly before their loss to Highland. The road to state was a long, hard-working journey for the Aztecs, and they went into the quarterfinals

with a positive attitude. “Coming into this season our only goal was to win state,” Encinas said. It’s been awhile since Corona’s boys’ volleyball program won state; the last championship was back in 1997. With state on the brain, the players put in as much work as possible to boost their chances for the title. “Coach Clay (Webb) put us on a vertical jump training program. It’s pretty spicy,” Lim said. Head Coach Brynne Evans was pleased, to say the least, with the boys’ record in the regular season. “The team is doing very well! I am thrilled to see them succeeding,” Evans said before the playoffs. “The boys have put in many hours to the sport and the Aztec volleyball team, and it is rewarding for me

LIZ ChENEY

Junior Nic Plott (12) and senior Jake Nuneviller go up for a block during the Aztecs’ quarterfinal match against Highland. The Aztecs finished the regular season undefeated and spent much of the season ranked nationally by ESPN.

to see their efforts pay off.” Being undefeated didn’t give the players a free pass to “slack-off,” in fact it encouraged them to work harder. Prior to their quarterfinals game Encinas said, “Since we’re only one of the two teams that are still undefeated, everyone has bought into the state championship mentality.” It wasn’t easy getting to the point they are now, as they have gotten the ‘W’ in difficult matches. The boys played Highland five times, and every game was a “we won by two or they won by two” kind-of match, according to Evans. “We’re (Highland and Corona) really evenly matched teams,” Evans said. Next year will bring different challenges to the team. Due to losing so many players, next year’s season is potentially going to be a great challenge. “With so many seniors leaving there will only be three returning varsity players so it will be tough to build a new roster,” Encinas said. Underclassman players find this an issue as well. “Next year will be hard because there will be 10 open spots on varsity and there are only 10 people on JV, so almost everyone will be moving up,” sophomore Matthew Lake said. “A lot of them will be freshmen and I think it will be hard for them to adjust to the higher playing level after playing volleyball for just one year.” But, not all hope is lost for future boy’s volleyball success. Returning varsity will surely maintain the high level of play. “Ten seniors are moving on, but current juniors Blake Pendleton and Nic Plott will be solid,” Lim said. Though the title was not achieved, not all is negative. The team did go 17-0 in the regular season and “that’s an accomplishment in itself,” Evans said. “I’m very proud of them. It’s one of the best teams to ever come through Corona,” Evans said. “They are probably the best team I’ve ever coached.”®

Lawson wins 4th consecutive state tennis title Johnny Waddell Contributing Writer

There are very few people who can call themselves a four-time state champion in any sport. Senior Alex Lawson is now one of these select individuals. He was named the East Valley Tribune’s Varsity Xtra boys tennis player of the year. In the final match of his high school career, Lawson found himself in a hole, losing his first set 6-3. Lawson took the second set 6-3. In the third and final set of his high school career, he came out hot with a 3-0 lead, which put him on the road to his fourth state championship with a 6-2 final set win. “It felt really good (to win state) because all of the expectations I had this year and achieving my goal,” Lawson said. After he lost his first set Lawson said “I was kind of nervous because I had played that kid before and he had never been that tough.” His strategy going into the game was to play his own game and go for big shots and don’t let his opponent affect him. “After I lost my first set I didn’t really change my game I still played like I always did,” he said. Lawson is playing collegiate tennis at Notre Dame next fall. “I’m going to miss all of my friends because most of them are going to ASU and I’m going to Notre Dame,” he said. After collegiate tennis Lawson is going to see how his game has developed and then decide if he will attempt a professional tennis career. “He came in a good player and just got better over the past four years I was

very happy for him because that is a phenomenal accomplishment and proud of what he was able to accomplish as well. the hard work and dedication he put in paid off as well. He’s going to do well at the next level” Tennis coach Rick Wanta said.®

Devika Sharan

Senior Alex Lawson captured his fourth consecutive state singles tennis title. Lawson will play tennis at Notre Dame next year.

May 2012 • CdS Sunrise

Senior Issue • 3

FROM THE EDITOR’s desk

INSIDE

What does it take to put the newspaper together?

NEWSROOM

GOING

It’s a process few people on campus are aware of. Students consistently work though lunch and after school, designing pages, writing stories, conducting interviews, copy editing, taking photos and dealing with countless curveballs, all while becoming more than a staff—more like a family. Being our last issue of the school year, we wanted to give you a glance at what it takes to put an award-wnning paper in your hands every last Wednesday of the month, just like we promised in our first issue of the school year. 

Se ct io n edit o rs dis cu ss t h em e et in g in t h e h a llwa y n t (t h e s et- u pe wo iss u e ’s bu dg et o f t h e pa pe r)

We live by the phrase: “calories don’t count on deadline.”

w rite hen ey p h e rs Liz C ra g to o h /p rs ry Staff w rite rk o n a st o Sh a ra n wo a n d Da ve

Edit o r- in ex pe ri e n cin -gC hie f Pre s li e Hirs ch s o m e d ea dli n e st re ss

Adviser Mrs. Urban meets with the photo editor Lilly Berkley

The story editing process

one family

a ppea rs a c c o rz Ma Ja cqu i t rat ed r o it d g i n g E litt le f rs u Ma na

something here

My darling staff: I hope you enjoyed this surprise page capturing moments over the last several months. It’s been a great year for the newspaper and I’d like to express a sincere thank you to the staff, adminstration, our fabulous adviser, our loyal readers and advertisers.

THE SUNRISE

CdS Sunrise • May 2012

4 • Senior Issue

senior superlatives ph o

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