Our Voice

December 2011

Inside • Student to Know: Kelly Vodra • Dead or Alive: Chapter 13 • Author Spotlight: Sarah Dessen

A product of the Stevens Point Journal & Boys & Girls Club

2

December 2011

Magic of Christmas lost when celebration begins too early

By Kaylyn Kluck Our Voice staff Pacelli High School Ninth-Grader

I

t’s pretty obvious that people love the holiday season.

Christmas seems to be the biggest day of them all. Pretty decorations, good food, seeing family and friends, giving and receiving gifts, and so much more pave the way for the most wonderful time of the year. The question is: Do people love this holiday too much?

As I write this, it is two days before Halloween. The houses in my neighborhood are all lit up with glowing orange pumpkins and the amount of chocolate for sale at local grocery stores is substantial. Of course, I also spotted a few Christmas-themed posters put up on the exterior of a department store in the area. When stores urge people to start their Christmas shopping months

Question:

Brocken, Pacelli High School ninthgrader: Snow!

before the big day, many people feel they are going too far.

For example, there have been reports of some stores only carrying one aisle of Halloween items, and three full aisles of Christmas decor.

Obviously, Christmas is an exciting time for retailers. The idea of getting ahead and putting out Christmas items early might seem like a good idea. And when this happens, it starts a domino effect of stores stocking up with plastic Christmas trees and green and red wrapping paper.

To me, Thanksgiving also is really overlooked. I guess forgetting about pilgrims sailing over to our country centuries ago isn’t a hard thing to do, sadly. It isn’t difficult at all when there are Black Friday sales and gingerbread cookies there to distract you.

I’m sure if people made giving gifts on Thanksgiving a tradition, it would be more glorified. Instead, we have to look at numerous Christmas-themed commercials while eating our plates of turkey. So unless you relish in the rich history of how America was populated,

it isn’t hard to forget the spirit of Thanksgiving in the midst of it all.

Of course, not all stores get overexcited for Christmas. Nordstrom department stores put up signs saying: “We won’t be decking our halls until Nov. 25. Why? Well, we just like the idea of celebrating one holiday at a time.” Personally, I like this approach.

There are a few upsides to preparing for the holiday early though. People struggling with money in this tough economy might like that they can get Christmas items now when they might be on sale. Saving money is always a good thing. But we have to ask ourselves, how early is too early? And if it is too early, is the true meaning of Christmas lost?

Christmas is a sacred time, and not only because lots of people celebrate their religion on this day. For one day, all around the world, people try to take the effort to make others happy. The soldiers overseas do their best to halt

Editorial

fighting and just enjoy the holiday.

People travel long distances to visit loved ones. So the heartwarming vibe of a day of celebration can be ruined with people trampling others on Black Friday just so they can get an iPod Touch and flat screen TV at a discount price. To me, giving and receiving gifts is a wonderful tradition, but shouldn’t be the main focus of Dec. 25.

Think of it through the eyes of a child. They wait all year for this amazing period of time where snow covers the ground and presents wait under the tree. When Christmas starts being celebrated too early, the magic can be lost.

Instead we should be teaching them the true meaning of the holiday so that the message of Christmas isn’t lost as each generation grows up.

Now that Christmas really is near as you read this, take time to reflect on what it really means. Retailers and the media may set the norm for what the day is supposedly about, but as many of us know, they are wrong. You can never put a price tag on the value of Christmas.

What are you most looking forward to about Christmas?

Mariah Pursley, Pacelli High School 12th-grader: Time spent with my family.

Alexa Haynes, Pacelli High School 10th-grader: Decorating the Christmas tree.

Hannah Formella, Pacelli High School 10th-grader: Making cookies and spending time with family.

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December 2011

Team helps youths learn about cross-country skiing

By Danielle Pederson Our Voice staff Stevens Point Area Senior High 10th-grader

W

hen you think of cross-country skiing, you may think of big, puffy winter jackets and wooden skis, and skiers slowly moving along shuffling their feet. Well, that is true, some people do ski just for the enjoyment and for the fun of it.

The type of cross-country skiing I am talking about,

however, isn’t exactly like that. When I say cross-country skiing, I mean competitively. The Iola CrossCountry Ski Team meets every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday to prepare for ski meets that occur on various weekends.

“It’s a great youth organization that promotes a lifestyle rather than just seasonal sport,” said Greg Pederson. The coaches really teach you on a level that is easy to understand.

You learn so much in such a short period of time.

The coaches aren’t the only thing that is great about the Iola team, the other athletes are amazing as well. I have grown close to a lot of them. We have some very good skiers, including Lily Kraft, Soren Anderson and Emma Barns,

who are constantly Top 10 contenders at Wisconsin state meets. Another athlete who is worth mentioning is Hailey Thompson, who is the Wisconsin State Kayaking Champion. I am proud to say I am a part of the Iola Cross-Country Ski Team, as well.

The coaches for the 201112 team are Susan Werzer, George Kraft, Kristen and Jake Barns, and John Mosey.

Assistant coaches are Todd Willams, Greg Pederson, Gary Weier, Dick Thompson and Mike McGibbon.

The team is very diverse and is ready for the snow to start falling. Not a lot of kids can say they are truly excited for the snow to come. The ski bug gets under your skin and most of the kids on the team stick with it until they are

Pictured are members and coaches with the Iola Cross-Country Ski Team: Stephanie Pederson, front from left, Kristen Jordens, Danielle Pederson, Allie Jordens, Peter Barns, Seth Barns, Emma Barns, Maggie Medo, Jessica Timmerman, Sam Williams, Hailey Thompson and Lily Kraft; Kris Barns, back from left, George Kraft, Jake Barns, Soren Anderson and Sean McGibbon. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO) seniors, then they go on all year long, not just when to ski recreationally. This the snow is coming. team truly feels like a famIf you would like inforily, a family that is around mation about the ski team

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December 2011

By Hanna Burch Our Voice Staff Ben Franklin Junior High School Ninth-Grader

T

Dead or Alive

he voices walked away, and after checking to make sure it was safe, Angie raced out of the bathroom to find her dad. After frantically pushing past bodies fragranced with perfume and aftershave, Angie spotted her father in deep discussion with two intimidating men in suits. They were taller than most everyone in the room and had stern faces and slight suspicious bulges in their suits. Angie walked over stealthily and stood to the side of Carlos.

“Um, Da-, sir, can I talk to you for a moment?” Angela asked. Carlos stopped talking and, along with the two men, looked down at her.

“What is it, Angela?” He asked in a no-funny-business voice. Angela looked at the two men and back at Carlos, trying to send her dad a message that she needed to talk in private. Carlos got it and sighed.

“Angela, these two men are Garth and Hal. They are head of security.

You can tell them anything you want to tell me.” Carlos introduced the two men who, in response, stayed statue still and blinked in greeting.

Fine, Angie decided. “I heard two women speaking outside the restroom and they said they were waiting for you to disappear, because one of them had gotten something for the other, and I didn’t really understand, but ...,” Angela rushed. Unlike how she thought they would react, the three men tensed up and took her seriously.

I guess adults do believe kids, unlike in the movies, Angie thought.

“When exactly did this happen, Miss?” The one man, Garth, asked in an earthquake-equivalent rumble.

Taken back for a moment by his tone, Angela responded, “About five

minutes ago.”

“Two women, you say?” Hal asked in a quieter but just as bone-shivering voice. Angie nodded. The two officers looked at each other and turned to Carlos.

“They are here. We must take immediate action. Cancel this banquet immediately and order everyone to quarters. The Seekers will have left the area already,” Garth ordered, and, if possible, in an even more deathly voice than before. Carlos and Hal nodded. Garth and Hal turned away and exited through a set of doors hidden in a corner, but before exiting, went through a series of security checks before the doors clicked open. Meanwhile, Carlos grabbed Angela’s hand and pulled her toward the middle of the large hall.

“Listen closely and listen carefully.

I want you to stay in large amounts of people. The Seekers will not have easy access to you that way. When I order the guests out, follow the crowd. I will send Carleen to help you. You will report to Plan 75’s main headquarters and be held under guard. Do you understand? Do not stop for anything. No distractions, no curiosity.” For the first time, Angie felt fear from her father. She nodded in reply.

“Can I ask just one question, then I’ll do whatever you say?” She looked at him, and didn’t wait for a nod.

“Who are the Seekers, exactly?”

Carlos looked grim. “Seekers are the government employees whose careers revolve around ending this production. They are here to blow up our quarters and imprison all Plan 75 employees for life. They will stop at nothing. They are powerful. They will kill you.”

Editor’s note: This is the 13th chapter in a continuing series. The 14th installment will appear in the January issue.

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December 2011

Author Spotlight: Sarah Dessen

Our Voice Staff Stevens Point Area Senior High 10th grader

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“The Truth About Forever,” “Lock and Key” and “What Happened to Goodbye.”

The books are very good books, but they are not easy, quick reads.

Some have some length to them and aren’t for the faint of heart.

I hope you enjoy reading a ton of Sarah Dessen books.

Coming in the next issue ... look for the Author Spotlight on Victoria Houston.

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arah Dessen has hit almost all the core issues girls go through as teenagers. As girls we have ... special issues ... you know what I’m talking about. The extra emotions we carry are difficult to deal with some days, and those are the days to reads some of Sarah Dessen’s books.

Dessen has a way of making those emotions seem normal and OK. She is very good, in my opinion, at writing about girls’ thoughts and ideas about guys, parents and other female friends. I believe that Dessen has the best books for a feel-good read.

Although you need to watch out for a few of her books — some are on the very, sad side.

Her feel-good books include: “Along for the Ride,” “Just Listen,” “Dreamland,” “Keeping the Moon,” “That Summer” and “Someone Like You.” Watch out for the not-so-happy books which are: “This Lullaby,”

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December 2011

Student to Know: Kelly Vodra

By Hanna Burch Our Voice staff Ben Franklin Junior High School Ninth-Grader

K

elly Vodra is a junior at Stevens Point Area Senior High.

She is a member of the National Honor Society; Key Club, a community volunteer group; and FFA, an agriculture-based group.

She is also on the SPASH cheer and stunt team and the Red Panthers high

school figure skating team.

Kelly’s favorite class is the small animal veterinarian science class. “I love playing with the bunnies, guinea pigs, and mice! I love learning about animals,” she said. Her goals for the school year are to maintain a 3.8 GPA and to meet new people.

In the future, Kelly would like to become a small animal veterinarian.

“Ever since I was little I’ve loved all kinds of animals.

I remember my dad used to call me a lion tamer because I would open my

dog Bingo’s mouth when he got ahold of something he shouldn’t have.” Kelly said.

Kelly’s role model for success is her dad. She says he is really smart and works hard at everything he does.

Kelly’s inspirational figure is Tony Melendez, a guitarist who has no arms and plays guitar with his feet.

He grew up in a poor family in Spain, and he now is touring all over the world to show his talent and share his story. “I read his biography and learned that he went through a really tough time coming to America for medical reasons,” she said. “His entire story really inspired me.”

Kelly’s motivation comes from keeping a positive attitude and knowing that everything she learns, in

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Kelly cares deeply about her friends and family, who are always there for her.

Outside of school she enjoys doing agility with her dog, being a member of the Crystal Ice Figure Skating Club and participating in the Aber Suzuki music program. “I have been skating and playing the cello since fifth grade.” she said. She is also the vice president of the St. Bronislava Catholic Church youth group.

Kelly’s advice for students is to take it one day

NOMINATE A STUDENT at a time, and to do whatever you do to the best of your ability. Her biggest accomplishment is convincing her parents to get her a puppy. She has had to sacrifice a lot, but in the end it was worth it, she said.

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Do you know a local junior high or high school student who should be featured as our Student to Know in Our Voice. If so, contact Jamie Jung at 715-3452256 or email jamie. jung@cwnews.net.

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December 2011

Teacher to Know: Amy Randazzo

By Hanna Burch Our Voice staff Ben Franklin Junior High School Ninth-Grader

A

my Randazzo of Plover is an eighth-grade English teacher at Ben Franklin Junior High School. She grew up in Winona, a town about the size of Stevens Point that is located in southern Minnesota. She was raised by a single mother who now lives three hours away. “I wish I could see her more often,” Mrs. Randazzo said.

Her family consists of her

husband, Chris. They had a black lab, Lily, who was a major part of their family, but her kidneys gave up and they had to say goodbye to her during the third week of school this year. “It was a very difficult time, and a great loss.”

Mrs. Randazzo said.

In high school, Mrs. Randazzo knew she wanted to be a teacher. She loved her English classes and teachers, and enjoyed discussing literature and writing. “I thought it would be a really rewarding career to try to instill the love of reading and writing with students that my teachers had with me.” she said.

Mrs. Randazzo went to college in Eau Claire where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree. Her major was comprehensive English educa-

of being a teacher is helping teenagers through their tough times by making learning enjoyable and by providing a helpful word when someone is upset.”

Mrs. Randazzo enjoys teaching at Ben Franklin because the school functions as a community. “The school staff and students look out for each other and it is clear that people truly care and take pride in the school,” she said.

The best advice she could give students to succeed is get work done and turned in on time. “In the real work Amy Randazzo, an eighth-grade English teacher at Ben world, work needs to be Franklin Junior High School, in St. Paul, Minn. (CONTRIBUTED done by a deadline,” she said.

PHOTO) “Students need to know that tion, and she later received Mrs. Randazzo likes to be now so they can set up habits her master’s degree in edu- able to help students learn and practices that will carry cation at the University of and grow academically and them into the workforce. Now Wisconsin-Stevens Point. socially. “My favorite part it the time to figure out how

to use the school planner to prepare for upcoming work, to keep an organized locker, and to advocate for yourself by talking to a teacher if you don’t understand something or need additional help.”

Mrs. Randazzo said her students might be surprised to know that she still gets nervous speaking in front of people. “I think students assume that since teachers speak in front of people for a living, they must not ever get nervous. Well, I sure do!

The first day of school, open houses and awards nights are all nail-biting moments for me,” she said.

Her most memorable moment in her classroom was when she was awarded the Teacher of the Year See RANDAZZO/Page 8

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December 2011

RANDAZZO From Page 7

award by Walmart in 2006.

“Representatives from Walmart showed up to my classroom with balloons, a shirt for me and one of those HUGE checks. I had always thought getting one of those would be so cool, and it was,” she said. “One of my students in that class had written an essay about me as a teacher, so I won the award. That was the biggest honor: That a student took the time to write about me. I never did find out who wrote that essay ... no one would confess.”

Mrs. Randazzo’s hobbies include traveling, photography, scrapbooking and thrift shopping. Her favorite books are the “Hunger Games” series because the stories offer a unique plot for young adults. She also

loves the band Duran Duran from the 1980s. “I have been a huge fan since I was 9 years old. I have gone so far as to travel to my favorite band member’s hometown in Birmingham, England. I have seen them in concert 10 times.”

Mrs. Randazzo is famous for her brownie dance.

Whenever someone brings her brownies — her favorite dessert — she does a fun little rejoice dance that has become popular among students. It started around five years ago. “I remember the first dance very clearly,” she said. “All my students knew I was a brownie lover, and one day a student brought me some homemade ones.

However, my reaction to the delicious gift was a bit different than normal. I had been SO hungry, and the brownie was just the tasty delight that could soothe my growling stomach. Because

the solution to my hunger problem had just been presented, I proceeded to burst into a bizarre dance to convey my inner joy. This original ‘brownie dance’ did not include some of the now classic moves, nor did it have a song to go with it.

The additional moves and song were added as time went on. Who knows ... it may continue to evolve over future years as well.”

NOMINATE A TEACHER Do you know a local junior high or high school teacher who should be featured as our Teacher to Know in Our Voice? If so, contact Jamie Jung at 715-345-2256 or email jamie.jung@cwnews.net.

CALLING ALL WRITERS!

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re you a student in Portage County who loves to write?

Are you interested in learning what it takes to put a newspaper together?

Do you want your artwork or creative writing pieces published?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, this student newspaper needs your help.

Our Voice, a monthly product of the Stevens Point Journal and the Boys & Girls Club of Portage County, needs students to write about issues affecting them, entertainment, fashion, books, sports and more.

Co-founder Sam Dinga created this publication in summer 2006, recognizing that youth often are disengaged from newspapers. He created it to boost interest in reading and writing.

Our Voice is delivered to all households

in the boundaries of the Stevens Point Area Public School District with students in grades six to 12. It also is available at the Boys & Girls Club sites. There is no fee to join the staff, and students can write as much or as little as they want.

If you are interested in learning more, call Jamie Jung at 715-345-2256.

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