Junior Year- Second Semester

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Th e C o r r e s p o n d e n t

Sports

M a r c h 15 , 2 013

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unday, the Buffalo Grove Hersey Wheeling Stampede hockey team (not a school or District 214 sponsored sport) faced off against CFHS in the opening round of the state tournament. he game was a blowout with the Stampede winning 11-0. The Stampede continued their successful season after their Metro-North Central Conference championship win, 4-3, on March 2. “Just stepping stones, one team at a time. We have to keep playing well no matter how bad our competition is,” Junior John Cappuccitti, right, said. hey are working their way to the state championship at the United Center going into Wednesday’s game against Latin. heck out CorrespondentLIVE for stats and coverage of the game.

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•BRIAN LOOMIS

Athletes take time for out of school sports Abby Fesl Jessica Lynk

“I started as a baby,” freshman Alysa Zurlo said, “I would climb and do gymnastics type things since I was little.”

Zurlo is not the only student to participate in sports from a young age, nor is hers the only sport that trains in the off-season.

Club sports are the non-school sponsored activities that students participate in to help train for the school season as well as gaining attention for possible college recruiters.

“Off-season [for soccer] helps keep me conditioned and get more games in to get ready for season,” senior Sarah Mulroe said.

Athletes who choose to play on a team in high school are usually expected to train out of their high school season to improve, whether it be through club sports or on their own time.

“Practice and playing indoors helps before tryouts. Travel just keeps you in shape for high school,” junior Kelsey Panfil said.

Senior Erica Hill has been a three sport athlete all four years playing volleyball, basketball, and track.

During her junior year, Hill played varsity for all three sports and still managed to find time to play club for volleyball during her other school seasons.

“Sometimes it’s hard to keep up with my academics when I have practices and games everyday after school, but I’ve learned how to manage my time wisely when I do come home or even during school,” Hill said.

For soccer players, club season is year round, leaving them no time to participate in school sports. Senior Matt Quick, who recently committed to play soccer at University of Kentucky, played on varsity his freshman year and then stopped to play for Socker’s FC instead.

“Academy is year-round and it’s always been my goal to play in college,” Quick said.

Junior Kelsey Panfil decided that she wanted to play for a better softball team, rather than just park district, so she joined a travel team.

Panfil also plays on varsity during the spring.

“It’s a lot of fun, obviously, and the people you meet playing become really good friends.

Plus, playing on competitive teams could potentially get you a scholarship to play in college,” Panfil said.

TIMEOUT!

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llin Ro r in te un ond H c ate th Se st Wi

Q:

How does it feel to be the only representative from Hersey to make it down state?

Her travel team practices four times a week during the off-season, and during the fall traveled to six or seven different states. Also, throughout the summer, the team has a tournament every weekend.

“For my team, the hardest part is how busy our schedule is. We still find time to do service projects as a team together, too. It’s a lot of time,” Panfil said.

Freshman Alysa Zurlo has been on the Buffalo Grove gymnastics team since she was in second grade.

“Everyone at my gym is so close, we are like family and it’s really hard to stop training with them. I like competing with my team, so it’s really hard to choose between Hersey gymnastics or staying with my club,” Zurlo said, “I think either next year or my junior year I will try out [for the Hersey team].”

Although she is not yet on the gymnastics team here, she believes that her team will help further her gymnastics skills and career.

“Almost all the girls that stay with my club through senior year get scholarships to do college gymnastics,” Zurlo said.

This weekend in sports Girls Water Polo March 16 at Glenbrook South “There is going to be a lot of good teams,” junior Natalie Curtis said. “We will be playing a lot of games that day, but we usually do pretty good.”

Well, it was pretty expected for me to make it down state because I was expected to lead the team.

Q:

Are you continuing wrestling after high school?

Actually, I am. I’m not sure where yet, but I will probably go to either Purdue, NIU, or Whitewater.

Q:

What is the most memorable part of your season?

My most memorable part is when I won my semifinal match at the Grand March.

Boys Water Polo March 16 at Deerfield “I’m expecting a tough game but because we are practicing hard, I think we can win,” sophomore Santiago Guerrero said.

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The

Vo l u m e 4 5

orrespondent J o h n

H e r s e y

1900 E. Thomas St.,

H i g h

S c h o o l

Arlington Heights, IL 60004

May 17, 2013

Issue 10 @Hersey_Corre @JHHSCorre

Hersey Stats

2,044 students 228 staff members

56 activities 30 sports Average AP Score:

3.7 Graduation rate: 97.3% •All stats according to Newsweek and THe Washington Post

Page 2 Students run in memory

Page 6-7 Summer brings top activities

Page 10 Hidden ‘Oasis’ enlightens

Students and staff piece together successful puzzle Jessica Lynk

Senior Mary Sobzcak has had a busy couple of weeks. Sobzcak is in five AP classes, but is taking seven AP tests.

“I’m paying for school myself, and I am planning on going to law school, so by taking so many I’m getting all my gen eds. out of the way,” Sobzcak said.

Students like Sobzcak have not only helped themselves, but the school by earning top rankings.

This year this school was ranked as the second most challenging public school in the state

by The ‍Washington Pos‍t and rated sixth best public school by the U.S. News & World Report. It ranked at the top of all district 214 schools in The Washington Post’s review and fell one place behind Prospect according to U.S. News & World Report.

The Washington Post’s review is based solely on Advanced Placement participation, while the U.S. News & World Report ranks schools by college readiness, Advanced Placement performance, and academic performance among minorities.

Most students felt the ratings were well deserved. “I definitely think Hersey deserves such an amazing ranking. There is no question that the Hersey administration, division heads, teachers and students work tirelessly year round.

This ranking is a great way to show the Hersey community that our hard work pays off, and to serve as motivation for years to come,” senior Lauren Nagle said.

Although these ranking show success, they do not show all sides of success.

“All of these media based

•Graphic by:

school surveys have limitations. deflated the ranking may Jessica Lynk They only get part of the story. That have been the graduadoes not make them insignificant. tion rate that they have, It simply makes you use them as which is stated as a 91 percent. pieces in a picture, not the entire On The Washington’s Post’s picture.” Principal Gordon Sisson review our graduation rate is 97.3 said. percent. Many who have analyzed The rankings are prestigious the numbers believe that the Career but have many factors that can vary Life Skills program, which allows the results. According to the Direc- students to graduate when they are tor of Research and Evaluation 21, has skewed Newsweek’s review. for District 214, Steve CordoThe difference between this gan, The Washington Post’s reschool and others in this review view is the most ac“It simply makes and others is that it has curate because it is the most growth. you use them the most narrow. It “Hersey is noted as is based off of particithroughout America for pieces in pation, not on scores, student growth, which a picture, so it does not completeis not a part of any of not the entire ly represent a school. these assessment tools. picture.”

The U.S. News A student that has an & Report attempts - Principal Gordon Sisson ACT score of 20 and to take in a bunch of started at a 12 is an factors, which can create inacincredible story. This is repeated curate data and skewed results. over and over in this building,” “When you look at Hersey, Sisson said. in terms of participation, it’s outDivision head of English and standing, but if you look at the Fine Arts Charles Venegoni has scores of Hersey, it is even better. spent time analyzing the growth Participation shows you push stu- of this school versus others. When dents, but scores show how well the looking at the national average of school is doing at preparing,” Cor- growth, other schools have a 27 dogan said. percent growth rate, where as this Although flaws in the system school has a 47 percent growth makes the rating seem less cred- rate. ible, this school is consistently “Hersey is a rare school behighly rated. cause students across the board, no “It’s one thing if these stud- matter where they enter, grow at ies have flaws individually, but we the same rate,” Venegoni said. “We seem to rise above them and place put equal attention on everyone, so high in every study,” Cordogan everyone grows equally.” said.

The curriculum here was put Newsweek released their Best in place to make sure all students High School list and this school grow from their entry rate. The rewas ranked 322 in the nation. It did views do not take into account this not place in the top 25 of the state. growth rate.

Many factors lead to the lower rat“When you just look at the exit ing. score, you miss so much,” VenegoOne of the major factors that ni said. •continued on page three

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News

Th e C o r r e s p o n d e n t

News You Need To Know Hostages in Ohio freed after ten years An Ohio resident found a lady yelling for help on May 6.

The resident rescued Amanda Berry, who had been missing for a decade and her 6-year-old daughter.

“It’s an insane story, how can someone for so long be held captive without anyone knowing?”sophomore William Trossen said.

Later, police also found long time missing Georgina DeJesus and Michelle Knight. Authorities later arrested 52-year-old Ariel Castro, 54-year-old Pedro Castro, and 50-year-old Onil Castro.

Neighbors claimed they had absolutely no clue that Castro was holding these women captive.

• Tim Griffin

State’s legalization of gay marriage signals progress

• Glen Stubbe/Minneapolis Star Tribune/MCT innesota Governor Mark Dayton signed the same sex bill on May 14. It followed many states and became the 12th state to legalized gay marriage.

With Minnesota becoming the 12th state to legalize same-sex marriage, following the example set by Delaware, New York, Rhode Island, and Washington, it seems that the oft-championed movement is finally meeting success in its pursuit of equal rights.

“I’m really happy to have been born in this generation.

With three states allowing samesex marriage in such a short time, the trend is one of progress and positive change, and equality is spreading faster and faster. It’s exciting and inspiring, and I can’t wait for Illinois to be a part of that,” junior Russ Bartlett said.

Minnesota followed in Delaware’s footsteps last Tuesday. Their own proposition to legalize same-sex marriage has passed the House and the Senate.

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•Melanie cohodes

M a y 17, 2 013

Students remember in Sunday events Isabella Murray

did,” junior Morgan Harris said.

The run also The second annual 5k helps support run/walk will be held in people battling dehonor of former student pression.

“Talk, Gina Giancola by the Gina walk, run, you are Giancola SAFE foundanot alone. Get the tion will be held this Sunstigma out behind day. the word suicide. It Starting at Thomas is a sensitive topic Middle School at 8 a.m., which needs to be the registration for the discussed openly race closes tonight at 11:59 by everyone. There p.m. with a registration fee is always someone of $25. That same Sunday there to help and the second annual flower talk to,” Gierman sale will be held here from said.

1 to 4 p.m. in honor of • Courtesy of gina GIancola The flower former student and Corsale is organized respondent member Shea he annual Gina Giancola SAFE Foundation run will take place

by The CorresponAnderluh. on May 19. Students, adults, and the community will come dent, specifically The SAFE Founda- together to shed light on former student Gina Giancola junior Jessica Lynk tion stands for Suicide helping coordinate and obtaining and adviser JaAwareness For Everyone.

The purpose of the foundation is to sponsors for the back of the t-shirts net Levin. The proceeds go to the support children, educate people, to help defray the costs of them. I Shea Anderluh convention fund, a help break the stigma around sui- also help coordinating volunteers fund that supports the convention cide and depression and encourage for the day of the race and help get trips taken by journalism students. the word out about the Gina run to “We decided to set up a convention children to seek help.

The Giancola family came up not only Hersey, but also the com- fund because that was one of Shea’s fondest memories, and we thought with the name and foundation. The munity,” Gierman said.

This race means a lot for many she would like to give people the foundation awards a scholarship in Gina’s memory to deserving ap- of Giancola’s friends and family. “I opportunity to experience it year plicants, supported LOSS (Loving hope this race will convince people to year,” Lynk said.

Not only can people buy flowOutreach to Survivors of Suicide) to want to choose life, that suicide in 2012 and this year, in addition, is not the answer. Someone stopped ers to take home, they can donate they will support Erika’s Light- one day to say, ‘Because of what flowers to plant at Hersey “Ms. Levin and I decided to do house, an organization that focuses happened to Gina I recognized my friend was in trouble and I called the sale last year because we wanted on depression awareness.

The SAFE foundation is not and got them help,” sister Domeni- to think of a way to raise money for a good friend, Shea, but also better the only contributor to the race. ca Giancola, Class of 2010, said.

“I encourage people to run the the community because Shea was The Giancola family, the Gierman family, English teacher Jim Miks, race because it’s a great way to keep not an “all about her” kind of perOfficer Hamrick, St. Viator parent Gina, who was a great friend to ev- son. We figured a plant sale would Tony Petrillo, and families from eryone, in our thoughts. Also, the be a grand idea because we could Stevenson also helped in planning money raised is put toward helping spread the beauty of Shea with the it, as well as juniors Megan Brant other troubled people and can help flowers, better the school, and raise prevent others from experiencing money,” Lynk said. and Lauren Gierman.

“My role in the Gina race is the tragedy that our community

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Sophomore snags silver at state for writing Brian Loomis to do what he Sophomore Brian Boyle placed second at the state journalism contest at Eastern Illinois University on April 26. Boyle’s success capped off a series of awards and recognition for this year’s Correspondent staff.

“I knew I could be a contender, but I still didn’t really expect my name to be called during the awards ceremony,” Boyle said.

Boyle had qualified for state following his second place finish at sectionals.

“I knew state would be much more difficult to do well in,” Boyle added.

As for the source of Boyle’s inspiration to write reviews he credits the professional press, in conjunction with the Correspondent staff, even though he had no intention of being a review writer when he joined the newspaper.

“I’ve been reading professional reviews by Roger Ebert, or Richard Roeper, and the Herald’s Dan Gire for as long as I can remember, but it wasn’t until I started writing reviews that I realized this is what I love. They are the people who inspired me,” Boyle said.

And although his readers benefit from his reviews, he sees his writing as an outlet and an excuse

loves.

“I love movies, and I love talking about movies, and I love reading about movies, and I love writing about movies,” Boyle added.

Yet his reviewing abilities have not he Correspondent staff poses with their first place secbeen limited tional plaque. This was the first time the staff has ever at just movies, won sectionals. contests such conference at the College of Duas state may have students reviewing art, music, Page on April 12.

The staff also placed third or comedy (this year’s prompt). As overall in the Illinois Journalism for next year’s competition, Boyle Education Association’s Division hopes to further pursue excellence three for best overall newspaper. in his quest to claim the top spot, The Correspondent had three and he is certainly on the right first place finishes in this contest: track.

Jack Hargett in information graph“Ranking second only adds to ic, as a staff for the newspaper’s my inner OCD, now that I know where I place, next year I’m going website, and first for multimedia to try to take it to the next step and package.

“We work really hard, and it is get that state title,” Boyle said. nice to be recognized for the hours Boyle hasn’t been the only that we put into producing each issuccess on The Correspondent sue,” junior Jessica Lynk said. however, the newspaper won their The Correspondent is looking sectional, and also won received a to further pursue awards this comsilver certificate at the Northern Iling year with the new staff. linois Scholastic Press Association

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News Teachers leave behind legacy Students comment on ratings Janu, Davis, Dassonville depart Th e C o r r e s p o n d e n t

M a y 17, 2 013

•Continued from Page 1

The ranking can be seen two ways for some.

“I think that the school has high standards that some students may not be able to meet. It could make students give up quicker, or lose motivation, but it [the rating] also could go the other way, it could give motivation and look good for colleges,” sophomore Kali Tansor said.

On the other hand, many students feel that only benefits can result from these high rankings.

“It sets a prestige for the school and its graduates, saying that you go to or graduated from Hersey would leave a better impression on a person’s mind, such as saying that you are a Harvard grad. Colleges would take Hersey’s rank into account,” senior Valmik Patel said.

Patel added that many factors do support that this school is one of the elite.

“Hersey does an excellent job in preparing students for college, ranging from the ACT to the ideals and policies set out in AP classes.

What makes this possible is that the teaching staff is overly qualified, dedicated, and actually passionate about their roles. I haven’t met a teacher yet that teaches only for money or only a stable job,” Patel said.

Others like this preparation but find it to be challenging at times.

“The classes really challenge you, and the teachers encourage you to push yourself. In some ways, I like it because it will help us in the future, but I also don’t like it because it takes a lot of effort to keep my GPA where I want it,” junior Kelsey Macke said.

“I think it’s good that they try to push us so we can do our best, but sometimes I think the stress i s too much,” freshman Morgan Buckley said.

Others do not see this school as so challenging.

“I think its pretty easy to succeed at Hersey. The only way to fail a class is to actually try and fail like by not turning in everything and turning in blank tests,” junior Aije Matthew said.

Sisson believes that students do not even feel the challenging part of this school.

“Some kids love AP classes. To some kids, it is their variety basketball, their water polo. They love it.”

The award shows how much students can achieve here.

“If students want to be the best they can be, they have that opportunity here,” Sisson said.

Mili Pandya With the end of each school year, the faculty, staff, and students are forced to say goodbye. Goodbye to the hallways for the summer, goodbye to the graduating seniors, and also goodbye to the teachers who will not be returning the following year.

The teachers leaving at the end of this year include social science teacher Bruce Janu, who will now be teaching at Elk Grove High School.

“I am someone who thrives on change. I love it here at Hersey--love the people here and the students. I’ve been here for 14 years and, as I move into the last third of my teaching career, thought a change would be good for me. I see it as a challenge; going out of my comfort zone,” Janu said.

Of the many things he does, Janu is most known around school for the countless forums he facilitates throughout the year. Incorporating his love for movie making, Janu’s forums have kept students entertained and engaged.

“I think his forums are great because he makes it interesting and does things you wouldn’t expect; he’s really creative,” sophomore Ashley Johnstone said.

“I love the forums and the opportunity that I have had to interact with students all over the building, not just in my classes,” Janu said.

Other teachers leaving include math teacher Terry Davis, who will be retiring after 32 years of teaching here.

“This is a profession that is about people, and I will definitely miss the people. I will miss the energy that comes with working with young and optimistic students,” Davis said.

“Mrs. Davis helped me understand math a lot better and was overall just a really great teacher,” sophomore Emily McCluskey said.

English teacher Dale Dassonville will also be retiring after 11 years of teaching here. Prior to that he taught at Buffalo Grove High School.

When walking by his room during passing periods, students may often hear live music streaming out from his guitar.

“Whenever he plays his guitar during class, it brightens my day and makes me happy,” sophomore Sean Prior said.

“I’ve enjoyed every aspect of the experience, from collaborating with my colleagues to teaching so many wonderful kids,” Dassonville said.

“I’ve enjoyed every aspect of the experience, but I will miss most the friendliness and dedication of the administration, staff, and students. I hope you all realize what a rare gem Hersey is,” Dassonville said.

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Opinions

Th e C o r r e s p o n d e n t

f e b r u a r y 15 , 2 013

Staff Code creates excuse S peaks Students have reason to avoid risky situations

CHOIR

YEAR BOOK

BAnd

“No, man, I can’t it is too much of a risk. I love playing basketball.”

The code is an excuse. It can keep kids out of trouble and involved in school activities. It keeps them focussed on grades rather than hung-over from booze. Let students stay out late rather than on lock down in their own homes. It has a purpose, it serves to protect kids from their bad decisions

DIVING

“Sure, if it is going to be small, the police won’t show up.” (or “He won’t find out, it is going to be small.”)

What happens if a best friend turned enemy sends him pictures?

FCCLA

SOS

DEbate

“Sure, if my parents find out, I’ll just be grounded for like two weeks.”

What if Novak finds out? A code will be given, one that prohibits students from participating from basketball, soccer, show choir, debate, SOS, cheerleading, and any other activity.

percent of contests or performances in each activity they are in. They can possibly be suspended for one calendar year or the rest of their high school career.

“If Novak finds out, I’ll just get The code follows students everya code, whatever it’s not that big of a day. It becomes an important aspect deal.” to all athletes and those involved in Students can be suspended for 25 any activity. By joining an activity, students are make a commitment to higher standards.

GOLF

Partying surrounds high school.

Students are pushed by peer pressure; “try this... do this...be this...” but when most students decide to take a smoke or a shot, they are risking more than they think.

Novak receives anonymous emails with pictures and things stated on Facebook. Everything is evidence and affects the code.

MAth Team

“Hey man, want to go to this party at John’s?”

BASKET BALL •Graphic by: Jessica Lynk

Requirements kill student’s ambition Michael Miller

During junior year, eight decisions determine the future of students’ academic lives. Eight senior year class slots, open for personalization more than in any year beforehand, provide ambitious students the opportunity to take high level, AP classes that have the most influence on their college and career choices.

With so much on the line, creating a schedule for senior year is critical for success in life after high school.

However, for academically involved students, a precious class slot senior year is often used on one of the district-wide graduation requirements. Possibly the most restrictive of these is the fine arts requirement, as it cannot be taken over the summer.

The problem is not fine arts itself, but rather how the district determines proficiency in fine

arts. For one, the actual activities that qualify as a fine art are not clear. Under the fine arts tab on the Hersey web site, journalism is listed even though it doesn’t actually count for the requirement. Other District 214 schools list speech and debate as a fine art, yet these do not qualify for the requirement either.

The shortfalls do not stop there. The definition of a fine art that the district uses for its requirements appears to be similar to the one supported by the National Art Education Association, which says that only the “visual arts, dance, music, and theatre” make up the fine arts.

Even if this strict interpretation of fine arts is justified, the district’s policy is still misaligned because it doesn’t recognize that fine arts can be mastered just as easily outside of school as in a class or school-sanctioned activity.

As a piano player myself, I’m able to learn music and experience fine arts on my own. Other students play in their own bands and sing in their church choirs. As long as legitimate, outof-school activities are disregarded, the current fine arts requirement will only continue to be

Hot Topics

redundant for some, limiting for many, and inefficient for all.

So, how can the district refine its system so that every student experiences fine arts, but no student is forced to take a redundant class? The answer lies in a method already employed by the district to be more flexible with other requirements: an opt-out test.

This system is already used by varsity athletes to opt out of gym, and countless students took a test to spare themselves of the now defunct info processing requirement. Even driver’s ed allows for private certification, so why can’t fine arts? Overall, this method strikes the right balance between proficiency and redundancy.

Senior year is fast approaching for juniors, and pressure to schedule correctly is mounting.

In music, an octave is eight notes, and it represents a full scale of keys on a piano.

In our school, a schedule is eight classes, and it should represent the full scale of ambition and potential for each and every student, not some singular solution for a diverse student body.

What do you think of not having Turnabout this year?

“I think turnabout is a way to see what’s on a girl’s mind, so it should stay”

“Kind of nuetral.

It doesn’t really matter. Not a big deal for me”

“Dancing is too mainstream, and I’m a hipster, so you see how that works”

“Personally, I really don’t care.

I heard it was for couples only, and I don’t think that’s fair”

-Freshman Alex Yager

-Junior Jimmy Scheuman

-Junior Sean Hlavin

-Freshman Lorraine Hargrove

“It’s fine since no one really goes”

-Senior Ruben Gonzalez

“It’s upsetting, I really liked Turnabout”

“I’m OK with it.

Not that many people go”

“Not suprised.

There wasn’t a good turnout last year”

“I don’t care because it wasn’t fun”

-Junior Lizzy Toffenetti

-Senior Tess Campbell

-Sophmore Angela Kucharski

-Sophmore Kevin Messer

“I think it’s fair because not a lot of people went last year, and it saves money” -Junior Brin Joseph

Opinions

F e b r u a r y 15 , 2 013

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Th e C o r r e s p o n d e n t

It’s a massive world after all Nick Diaz

No falser words exist than ‘It’s a small world after all.’ In fact, they couldn’t be further from the truth; the world is vast beyond imagination.

It is difficult to even try to comprehend just how many places are out there and how many people inhabit them. I learned this for myself as I traveled to Europe twice during my high school days.

I visited Spain in 2010 and just came back from Italy and Hungary over winter break. After trekking through various cities in these magnificent countries, my perception of Earth has been transformed. The wonders of traveling have the ability to open a person’s eyes and I insist that all students experience it in their lives.

The first thing to understand is that since the world is so massive, different places will be relatively different from each other. Culture shock sets in pretty quickly for someone who just arrived in a foreign land, but if approached with an open mind, the shock can be easily subdued.

After that’s taken care of, it is important to let the mind and senses take in everything around. The images, architecture, people, language, smell, food, and the general atmosphere can be overwhelming for the observer, but oh so splendid.

The worst thing to do is rush through a visit. I understand a tight schedule, but I have found that spending longer periods of time in a few single locations is better then trying to see a bunch of different places in a short amount of time.

Culture cannot be truly appreciated in a few hours or even a day. Visitors have to immerse themselves in the way of life and try to move with the flow of the culture to attain a genuine experience.

As students, there is no sweeter word than ‘vacation.’ Getting away from school is the greatest treasure for high school students. That being said, when taking a huge trip out of the country, it is recommended to retain the scholarly attributes that exist during the school season. Unlike the young country of America, the rest of the world is overflowing with thou-

t s Ju

sands of years of history. Relaxing during vacation is fine, but missing out on learning about these amazing places and their pasts is a total waste if not a crime.

These cities and countries are begging for tourists to come and observe their respective histories and stories. Even though I hate being considered a tourist, it is hard for people to hide when the sense of awe overtakes them and they are forced to marvel at the breath taking historical material. Museums with ancient statues and beautiful paintings, old castles and fortresses displaying relics of the past, and an endless amount of stories of valiant heroes, bloody wars, and complex politics flood the world.

I know students would rather jump off a cliff than be subjected to these things, but I still can’t stress enough how important it is to try to learn about the world’s intricate past.

For me, though, the most incredible thing about traveling is meeting people from every corner of the world. It is easy to forget just how many people, each with their own stories and experiences, live on Earth.

Getting to know these people, even if for a short period of time, is a remarkably rewarding experience. While in Budapest, Hungary, I stayed in a hostel with only my brothers and the other young travelers who were staying there.

Hostels are ideal for passing travelers who need a place to stay and want to meet new people. Instead of paying for a room like in a hotel, travelers only pay for a bed and share a room with other people.

It isn’t exactly ideal for those high maintenance types of people, but if students don’t care about sharing a bathroom with strangers and being woken up every other hour of the night, it’s perfect.

Forming brief connections with other people from around the world who had the same sense of wonder of the world as I did, was one of the greatest feelings. It is a mysterious thing, but it can only be described as deep human connection. This is something not to miss in a lifetime.

If nothing else, eat as much of the traditional food as possible because that alone can be life changing. Of course, students could always just have a Big Mac too because for all the differences in the world, McDonald’s isn’t one of them.

’ n i y a S

Web dates create trouble

Sleep trumps studying

Dino Ljubijankic The chances of finding out a loved one is actually a Hawaiian prankster isn’t as likely as some may think, but it happens.

When words are put in an image macro, and a website URL is at the bottom of a page, people will believe anything. Yet, a picture with the date and time isn’t enough.

Manti Te’o has become the poster boy for guys who get tricked into an online relationship. Is it his fault that the person he though was his girlfriend was actually a Hawaiian prankster? No, but he should have known better then having an online-only relationship.

Hell, the show on MTV, Catfish, is dedicated to showing guys the true identity of their online soul mates. How does this keep happening? Why do people keep falling for people who lie about who they are? People need to be more aware about who they meet online. Just sayin’.

about an hour ago • like •

Caitlin Strozewski

The night before a big test is filled with cramming and lack of sleep. Students think that studying until 3 a.m. will better prepare them for a test than being well-rested.

It’s pretty obvious that this is not the best strategy when looking at the zombie-like expressions on classmates. Studying doesn’t do any good if a student is practically falling asleep just trying to read the questions.

If a student doesn’t know it already, cramming it all into an overtired and distracted brain is not effective. It’s pointless to try at that point because no one had the attention span or drive at 3 a.m. to get anything out of it.

A better use of time would be to sleep so at least you are awake enough in the morning to be able to think and make educated guesses. Just Sayin’

about an hour ago • like •

Senior Soundoff •A rotating column by class of 2013 •

No major, means no worries

With college right around the corner, it’s impossible not to feel stressed over application deadlines and deciding which college to choose. I have set what college I’m planning on going to, but not what to major in.

When I was younger, my dream was to be a nurse, but now I realize all the work, dedication, and money that’s put into it.

I had to let that dream go. Freshman and sophomore year, I signed up for pre-school class and I realized how much I loved teaching and working with children. However, after hearing all the teacher strikes, my opinions changed.

Junior year, I joined The Correspondent, and I had a hard time writing stories and keeping up with deadlines. Now that it’s my second year, deadlines are still hard to keep up with, but I feel more comfortable with interviews, writing, and even taking pictures. That’s when I realized journalism or communications could be major options in college.

Thinking of what jobs may be available in a major’s area is also something to think about. After doing research, I was worried I might not be able to find a job in my field after college, especially since I’m planning on going to college in the city of Chicago.

Even though it’s a city and there are always some opportunities, with my luck, I’m afraid I won’t land a decent job. Since I tend to over think everything, I now fear I might never commit to anything. Communications is still a major I’m leaning towards, but it’s something I really have to think about.

After talking to most of my friends, I realized that I wasn’t the only one who didn’t have a major in mind. That’s when my stress level lowered a bit.

So for those who still don’t have a major in mind, there is nothing wrong with that. Being undecided when entering college is okay, and I’m more than positive that others who feel the same.

Erika Murillo Th e C o r r e s p o n d e n t is published 10 times a year by the journalism students of John Hersey High School, 1900 East Thomas Street, Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004. Subscription rate is $15 a year. Call for advertising rates. Phone (847) 718-4945.

The Correspondent welcomes a free exchange of ideas. Letters to the editor may be sent to correspondent@d214.org. Because school officials do not engage in prior review, and the content of The Correspondent is determined by, and reflects only the views of the student staff and not school officials or the school itself, its student editorial board and responsible student staff members assume complete legal and financial liability for the content of the publication.

The Correspondent will not publish any material determined by student editors or the student editorial board to be unprotected, that is, material that is libelous, obscene, materially disruptive to the educational process, and unwarranted invasion of privacy, a violation of copyright or a promotion of products or services unlawful (illegal) as to minors as defined by state or federal law.

All unsigned editorial area the opinion of The Correspondent staff. Materials in this newspaper are the property of The Correspondent 2012-2013. The Correspondent is a member of numerous press associations. Some material courtesy of American Society of Newspaper Editors/KRT Campus High School Newspaper Service.

Two thousand copies are made each issue to be distributed to students during their second hour classes. Two hundred are printed and mailed to subscribing parents.

Editors-in-Chief Ashley Hawkins Kevin Hyde

Online Editor-in-Chief

Copy Editor

Melanie Cohodes

News Editors

Garret Matchen

Natalie Czarnota Erika Murillo

Managing Editor

In-Depth Editors

Claudia Caplan

Editorial Board

Abby Fesl Mackenzie Francis Brian Loomis Jessica Lynk Isabella Murray Emily Swanson

Online Editorial Board Max Bestvina Michael Miller

Sports Editors Scott Bakal Tim Griffin David Milligan

Opinion Editors Nick Diaz Dino Ljubijankic

Julia Kedzior Mili Pandya Caitlin Strozewski

Feature Editors

Entertainment Editors

Francesca Hernandez

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Th e C o r r e s p o n d e n t

In-Depth

l a v i v r Su of the richest

‘Mo money, mo problems’

Activity fees may deter student participation Caitlin Strozewski

Throughout high school, students are presented with a variety of opportunities to become more involved in school. Activities are available for every interest. Although students are encouraged to try several activities, participation comes with a price.

Starting this year, the fees changed from $25 per activity to $50 per student. Those who can’t afford the fees can have them waived.

Beginning next year, the fees are increasing to $65 per person.

This amount will remain constant throughout a student’s four years, but fees for incoming freshman can go up.

This comes as a surprise to some students. “I hadn’t even heard anything about it,” sophomore Antonella Leonardo said.

This change is due to complaints by parents that the fees keep changing throughout their high school student’s four years. The new system satisfies families who expect to pay the same amount for all four years.

However, keeping the amount constant doesn’t make the fees any less expensive. Students will still be able to have the fees waived.

Although this system will keep fees constant through a students four years, it doesn’t prevent them from rising every year for in-

coming classes. Activities are only one of the many things that families are expected to pay for each year. As costs rise, participation in activities gets lower and lower.

“Less people will be involved in school activities if they can’t afford it,” sophomore Calvin Tran said.

It is already expensive to participate in activities like sports.

Students are expected to buy equipment, pay for summer camps, purchase spirit wear, and raise money through various fund raisers. Putting the increase in fees on top of this has students hesitating to try new activities.

“Some people may not try out, but a lot of people still will because they already play travel sports so they are used to spending the money on activities,” sophomore Sheila Naughton said.

Others feel the changes aren’t a very big deal. “I don’t think it will have much of an effect on me because it isn’t increasing very much,” Leonardo said.

No matter what students’ opinions are, schools around the nation continue to raise fees to make up for economic problems.

“I feel like it will make it harder on families, but I guess the extra money will help the school in the long run,” sophomore Emma Hopkins said.

Activity fees increasing will have an effect on each student, especially incoming classes.

A p r i l 19, 2 013

Memories boost concern for activities’ futures Mili Pandya

from participating in any extracurriculars.

“It would be more beneficial Whether it’s a sport, activity, for the school to keep the cost of or club, most students do not conactivity fees down, not only betinue on with these extracurricucause of the money the drama lars after graduation. Although department brings in along with these students may hear some other activities as well, but because news about what they participated being involved in extracurricular in, they may never be as dedicated activities is part of the high school to it as they once were. experience,” Schneider said.

Participation, along with dedIf extracurriculars were to ication, to their sports and other stop because of raising activity activities throughout their four fees, most students agree that they years here provides something for would be more than willing to graduates to look back on. help. Even though it could be diffi“When I think of how much cult, they would find a way to raise I miss high school, I realize that I the funds. really just miss my Correspondent “If Orchesis stopped due to family. As an incoming freshman, monetary reasons, I didn’t really have my I don’t think there niche or a set group “If Orchesis stopped would be much I of friends. Journaldue to monetary could do because ism gave me exactly reasons, I don’t think I’ll be a poor colthat when I officially there would be much I lege student next joined staff,” graduate could do because I’ll be year. If anything, Lauren Kelley said. major fund raising But the fact that a poor college student would have to ocone day students may next year. If anything, cur, which I would not be able to take major fund raising support 100 perpart in these same exwould have to occur, cent,” Johnson said. tracurriculars seems which I would support “For someone unfathomable.

100 percent,” not to have that “Acting class•Senior Erin Johnson opportunity just es and plays were because they don’t such an importance have enough money is literally part of my high part of my highs heartbreaking. I not only learned school experience, I made so a lot from being on the paper, but many friends and memories I can’t I met some of the most amazing imagine not having those opporpeople until this day,” Kelley said. tunities anymore,” graduate Emily Without a doubt, current stuSchneider said. dents care enough about their ac“If Orchesis stopped after I tivities that they wish that future graduated I would feel so bad for students have the same opportunithe younger girls that only got ties. to be on it for one or two years.

“For me, Orchesis has played They would have never gotten a major part of me breaking out the chance to experience Orcheof my shell and becoming less shy. sis as an older member, which is Not only that, but I wouldn’t trade the most rewarding and fun part the friendships I’ve made, experiabout it,” senior Erin Johnson said. ences I’ve had, or leadership and One reason this could occur dance opportunities I’ve taken part is due to participation fees. As the in for the world,” Johnson said. activity fee gradually rises, current students may be deterred

•Graphic by: Jack Hargett and Jessica Lynk

Sports

A p r i l 19, 2 013

Badminton finds improvement

Tennis’ work gives team hope for state Natalie Czarnota Oblivious to the other games on the courts surrounding her, senior Steffi Antony kept her eyes on the birdie as it sailed towards her. Her teammates shouted on encouragement and advice, reminding her to “shake it off,” and cheering her on.

Measuring the moment that it was on top of her, Antony smashed the birdie and won the point against her opponent, junior Noreen Caporusso from Prospect.

Varsity badminton team members played five doubles games and 10 singles games. Despite the team’s efforts, they lost a close match by a score of 7-8 against Prospect on Tuesday.

The team has been doing well at their invites, however, receiving 2nd and 3rd places.

“We’ve been getting higher places at our Saturday tournaments,” Antony said. “We’re doing way better than last year.”

After making it to state last year for doubles, Antony hopes to make it again this year.

However, she is anticipating to make it for singles this year.

Tomorrow, the team will continue to fight their way to state at the Hinsdale South Invitational.

“My goal is to qualify for state, but it all comes down to how I do at sectionals,” Antony said.

However, Antony said that she would be satisfied if anyone from the team made it to state.

“I want to get someone down to state so that we could all go to it. It was so much fun last year.

You learn so much because everyone at state is so good, and we bond as a team,” Antony said.

One of the players who is trying to qualify is senior Samantha McKinnon. She is preparing by reminding herself to keep her attention on the game.

“I need to try to not get angry while playing because then I lose focus of the game,” McKin-

“

There’s a lot of pressure here,” coach Megan Brownley said in the first huddle. “Wheeling’s 7-0 and we’re 6-1. If we win today we can win the East.”

The girls water polo team defeated the Wheeling Wildcats April 16 6-2.

“Katie was on fire tonight,” Brownley said. of junior Katie Lindholm, who forced four turnovers in the first period alone.

By 2:51 in the first period, senior Emily Goldsberry passed the ball off to Lindholm, who chucked the ball at the net, and the first goal of the game was scored.

“Bob (Wheeling’s waterpolo coach) was screaming,” junior Katelyn Emmerling said. The intensity rose throughout Olympic at once, and the play became vicious.

At the start of the second period, the Wildcats won the ball, but quickly lost it when senior Kelly Johnson stole the ball. Johnson passed the ball off to junior Hannah Lippstreuer down the pool length, where Lippstreuer made a raging shot at the net, forcing the Wheeling goalie to dive towards the top corner of the net to block it.

“It was a fantastic shot,” Brownley said. “We almost had it.”

During the third period, junior Iris Wenceslao forced her first turnover for the game, passed it off to Lindholm, on to Johnson. With a girl on her back, Johnson turned towards the net, fired the ball, and scored at the 6:04 minute mark.

After more back and forth action, the ball was passed to Johnson again at the end of the 30 second shot clock, where Johnson fired the ball at the net again, scoring back to back goals for the huskies at the 5:20 minute mark.

11

SP R S S R S Rainy days for spring sports

Softball to avoid washout

J

•FRANCESCA HERNANDEZ

unior Carly Pisano leaps for the birdie in her victory (21-7, 21-11). The Huskies defeated the Wildcats 15-0 on April 9. non said.

Senior Christy Chacko is also hoping to fight her way through sectionals to state.

“I lost only 1 double game and 2 single games. I’ve got a pretty good record,” Chacko said.

The girls have a strong support system within the team which will help them achieve their goals.

“We’re close as a team, and there to support each other,” junior Megan Salt.

Unfortunately, a big problem for the team this year were injuries.

“We were killed by injuries. It hurt our lineup, but the girls were able to rise up to the occasion,” varsity coach Jeanine Konkolewski said.

Despite the injuries, Konkolewski believes that the team is getting better.

“The girls are progressing well, working up to the championship season,” Konkolewski said.

“It’s fun watching their improvement,” Konkolewski said.

Water Polo overtakes East lead with win Emily Swanson

Th e C o r r e s p o n d e n t

“Kelly had it in her today,” Brownley said.

Towards the end of the period, the Huskies heightened their defense again, creating several more turnovers; most were made by junior Jillian Hoffman, Lindholm, and Johnson.

“This is the best we’ve ever played,” sophomore Shannon Cunningham said in the middle of the game.

With three seconds on the clock, Lindholm passed the ball off to senior Karolina Szymaszek, where Szymaszek fired the ball at the net, scoring point four at the buzzer.

Although the Huskies were beating the Wildcats 4-0, they did not plan on backing down. But in the fourth period, the Wildcats scored twice by the 5:52 minute mark, leading Brownley to call the first time out of the game.

“After those two goals at the 5:52 I got so nervous,” Johnson said. “I wanted to beat them so badly.”

The frustration was high and the girls adrenaline was pumping.

The Wildcats started with the ball, but was quickly turned over by the huskies, passed off to Johnson, scoring at the 3:51 minute mark. The Hersey gallery went nuts, leaving the Wheeling team silent at the other end of the pool.

The girls wasted no time on offense. At the 2:09 minute mark, Brownley had Curtis pass the ball off to Szymaszek, who passed it off to Hoffman, scoring the Huskies sixth point.

“That was the most exciting game,” Szymaszek said. The girls embraced in hugs and cheers when the buzzer at the end of the forth period sounded.

“We had to score at least three goals against them this game,” Brownley said. “Now we can win the East title.”

Softball has had its fair share of struggles, yet the team continues to have a positive outlook on the season.

“We pride ourselves on our commitment to always improve,” senior Rachel Fang said.

Some believe the early season struggles are on account of the horrible weather conditions. The team has been unable to get practices in outside, which effects their preparation for games.

“Our games have been going okay, we help pick each other up in touch game situations,” senior Michelle Bolker said.

The softball team currently has a 4-6 record, and has their hopes set high on future wins.

“Due to unfortunate weather forecast, the season has started off slow, and we haven’t been playing as much as I would hope,” coach Molly Freeman said.

The teams’ positive outlook sets the ideal stages for a definite conquer.

“My favorite point in a game is when we come back from a short deficit and come out winning,” Fang said.

The team hopes that they can do the same with their season. They are next in action this afternoon against Rolling Meadows.

•CLAUDIA CAPLAN

Weather haunts tennis

With the start of spring, the tennis season has begun. The tennis team hasn’t been excluded from the spring sports that are struggling to compete.

The team was unable to compete against Barrington on Wednesday as thunderstorms moved across the area.

The team was able to begin their matches against Conant on April 16, but the thor guard went off before the team was able to finish a complete match.

The team has, however, found success in other meets that the weather hasn’t affected.

The team started their season off with a win over St. Viator on April 3, with every athlete on the varsity level winning their sets.

A week after their win over St. Viator, the team also brought home a win against Hoffman Estates. Except for losing two matches, most of the boys defeated their opponents on the varsity level.

The team still has a number of individual goals for the upcoming invitationals.

“I’d like to get a ribbon at conference,” junior John Pham said.

In addition, the team has goals to compete well and improve. “We’re doing well, but we can do better. We’ll practice more to improve and win,” sophomore Owen Connor said. “[I’d like to] keep most of my shots in and to win a set against heavy hitters like Barrington and Fremd,” Pham said.

•MATT STADNICKI

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Features

Th e C o r r e s p o n d e n t

M a y 17, 2 013

Bible study club offers

for students

Students meet weekly to discuss stress-free religious topics Michael Miller

At 6:45 on a quiet Tuesday morning, the hallways may seem like a desert: empty and barren, and giving little encouragement to students hoping to survive another long day at school.

But this time is precisely when an oasis forms in the tiled sands of this desert, giving students relief. This fairly new group is the Bible study club, named “Oasis.”

“We named the club Oasis because it’s a place where everyone can gather,” senior Tony Kmilek said.

“God called on us to begin this group to be able to grow in our faith and to be comforted,” senior Anto Sagayaraj said.

Former students Stephanie Kinsell and Erin Safarski founded the club last year after a nationwide school prayer event showed how many students were interested in having such a group.

“The event is called ‘See you at the pole’, where students pray around the flagpole in front of the school at the beginning of the year. We had enough people there that we wanted to form a club at school,” senior Grace Mironas said.

Since then, it has grown modestly to include 10 or so active participants and 34 members on the group’s Facebook page.

“I heard some friends talking about it, and I became interested in joining,” junior Brandon Zuercher said.

As a Bible study club, a typical meeting does not stray far from what its name advertises.

“First we listen to music and then focus on a particular book of the Bible. This year it was the Book of Matthew,” Kmilek said.

•JESSICA LYNK

S

tudents gather to discuss their religious views.

Oasis meets every Tuesday moring at 6:45 a.m.

“We sing songs, play games, encourage each other, and just overall have an amazing time,” sophomore Hope Mironas said.

“We all sit around a table and discuss the particular passage we just read,” Zuercher said.

Although the club meets just to discuss amongst themselves, they hope to spread their faith.

“Our goal is to spread the word and be a light in our school,” Zuercher said.

Because of the group’s religious nature, it does have some difficulties in making itself known around school. According to the Equal Access Act, all students are aloud to start any club they would like, as long as it is student initiated and student run. “Promoting Oasis is dif-

Athletes gain training through summer camps

Students dance to grant wishes

•JESSICA LYNK eniors Katie Nowak, Lauren Ovsey, and sophomore Valerie Pajerski posed at their performance in the “Dance to Make-A-Wish” concert. They helped create a piece entitled “Superhero”, which was dedicated to a boy named Matthew who loves superheroes.

S

The dance classes hosted a concert for Make-A-Wish on May 2. The event included Dynamic Dancers, Dance Fusion, and dance classes.

The event raised $500 for the Make-A-Wish foundation.

“With dance, I wanted them to grow as people, not just in dance. This event did both,” dance teacher Jennifer Foss said.

Make-A-Wish is an organization that was created to grant wishes to children with a life threatening diseases. According to their website, on average a child is di-

While many students will wake up at home during June, July, and August, some students will use their almost endless amount of free time in a different way by attending summer camps.

“The more exposure you have to your desired sport helps you to learn more about it as well as train for the actual season. Practice makes perfect,” senior Ryan Kearns said.

Many colleges offer summer camps and courses to students in high school to give a feel for what college is really like and maybe even earn some college credit. Locally, the school offers summer

agnosed with a life threatening disease every 38 minutes. The organization believes the wish experience can be a Students got a unique opportunity through the dance program.

“You know you are doing it to help someone in need. It made it fun basing the dance off of specific people who are apart of Make-AWish,” sophomore Allison Van Staalduinen said.

ficult because we don’t have official school sponsorship. The club t-shirts we made are a big part of our promotion,” Zuercher said.

The complications deal with the fact that this is a religious club.

“The subject matter is really the only difference from other clubs,” Zuercher said.

Despite this complication, those students who are already a part of Oasis find in it many benefits.

“Oasis helped me meet other like-minded kids at school and gave me a place to talk with them. We’re all really close friends because of what we do,” Kmilek said.

“We just make good connections studying the Bible with friends at school,” Zuercher said.

Oasis is open to Christians and non-Christians alike, and its members encourage everyone to join.

“It’s a place to feel encouraged, no matter what faith you are. Students sometimes feel nervous about joining because it’s something different, but we’re very open and accepting,” Mironas said.

“We would love to have more people. If you need a group of friends or just somewhere to go, check out our Facebook group or talk to one of us,” Zuercher said.

Even in the roughest of times, the club allows the members to de-stress every Tuesday morning.

“After a stressful week this a place to come and feel comforted and encouraged,” Mironas said.

•JESSICA LYNK

athletic camps to those who want to perfect their sport and get in shape for the upcoming fall, winter, and spring seasons.

By picking a camp, whether it’s local or in another state or college, students ensure that their upcoming summer is spent in a more fun and productive way.

“You get to spend time away from home to do things on your own, and [summer camp] helps to show your independence from parents and technology,” junior Jacob Komenda said.

•MATT STADNICKI

6

Th e C o r r e s p o n d e n t

In-Depth

M a y 17, 2 013

STUDENTS PSYCHED FOR SUMMER Students ‘check out’ online stores Miranda Fanella chase accessories or apparel unique With summer approaching and the weather changing, summer clothes shopping is on the minds of many students. On the other hand, transportation to Woodfield or other shopping centers can be problematic for students without drivers licences or whose parents aren’t willing to drive them. Students may also feel pressure to purchase an item after traveling out to the store.

Fortunately, online stores are just as sustainable, if not more so, and are twice as accessible as stores themselves. As seen in the poll, American Eagle and Urban Outfitters are considered the most popular online stores among students.

“Both [American Eagle and Urban Outfitters] have unique styles of clothing, and they always have the latest trends,” sophomore Myca Bautista said.

Not only are online stores easily accessible, they also often offer online exclusives and special deals only available online. American Eagle online in particular has a whole section devoted to web exclusives.

This allows students to pur-

from that of other students who are shopping in-stores.

“It’s easier to find products online because it’s hard to find certain clothing pieces in big stores, but online you can see each individual piece and what it looks like,” freshman Annie McGrath said.

American Eagle is a hot outlet currently for students, often making its stores overcrowded. ‍The outfits modeled on often disproportional mannequins can cause misconceptions on how an outfit will fit, creating huge lines in fitting rooms. O‍nline shopping websites allow shoppers to eliminate the overwhelming and rushed feeling of crowds seen in stores. “[Online stores are] better because they’re more organized and you’re less pressured to buy because you’re not with friends,” sophomore Ashley Johnstone said.

American Eagle is one of few online stores with others including Urban Outfitters, ModCloth, ASOS, Etsy, Shopbop, and Dimepiece. The American Eagle and Urban Outfitters websites are easy to navigate by students and can cut down on that summer shopping time crunch and pressure.

•Coutesy of Chicago beaches n a recent poll of students, the beach was rated the favorite day trip. Beaches like Ohio street Beach, Wilmette Beach, and Illinois Beach State Park.

I

Beaches beat out boring daytrips Tim Griffin popular destination. Ohio Street The beach is always a viable selection for a day trip.

Refreshing water, scorching sand, and a beautiful sun to bathe in has teenagers scrambling to the nearest beach in the Chicagoland area. Illinois may not be near an ocean, but still has waterfronts just as magnificent as California beaches.

Northwest Illinois contains plenty of beaches that are excellent for families and friends. Ohio Street Beach in Chicago is a very

not only gives people the option of laying and catching some sun, but also exploring the stores and shops of Chicago only a few blocks away.

Another attractive beach is Illinois Beach State Park. Although its in Zion, the beach creates a relaxing peaceful environment and is also well-known for its beautiful sunset.

Wilmette beach is also a popular hot-spot for high school students. Opening May 25, Wilmette is well-managed by officials and always creates a suitable and safe environment for students and families.

The Correspondent took a survey of 200 students asking them their top summer activities, read which topics won. Check on CorrespondentLive to read more about summer activities.

Comedy books provide summer laughs (and other reactions) Isabella Murray

One of the most appealing parts of summer is the break from schoolwork. While the summer reading list is still existent, students sometimes don’t want to read on their own time. Comedy books don’t quite fit under the monotonous category though.

“It is one of my favorite genres because no matter how bad your day is, a good laugh will always cheer you up,” sophomore Cait Nagle said.

While it’s expected to want a break from anything school related, some genres of books, like comedy, are easy reads for summer.

Books like Mindy Kaling’s “Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns),” Kelly Oxford’s “Everything Is Perfect When You’re a Liar,” Tina Fey’s “Bossypants,” and countless other Chelsea Handler novels serve as only a small percentage of the books in t h e comedy genre.

In the past month or so, Nagle has read “Bossy pants,” “Drinking and Tweeting,” and “My InapproLife.”

“My all time favorite was ‘Bossy Pants.’ I laughed until I was in tears. I recommend it to almost anyone. I could not put it down,” Nagle said.

Most of the books are memoir about the comedian’s life, whose views and thoughts are easily comprehendible and amusing to read.

“Comedy books are simply funny.

So many books are intellectually interesting but emotionally draining. Comedy allows you to just enjoy the story and really make you feel happy and good,” sophomore Ellie Richardson said.

Elements of comedy are ap-

•Francessca Hernandez

A

recent Hersey survey ranked comedy books as the most read summer genre amongst students. pealing to students because the voice of the books are similar to the media versions of comedians’ work. “My favorite aspect of comedy literature is the authors ability to laugh at themselves, life’s to short not to,” Nagle said.

Comedy books are easy reads for the summer, when reading is student’s only homework.

“Reading in the summer is great. You don’t have to worry about school, you can choose your own schedule, and if you want you can read a whole book in a day. It’s very relaxing and allows you to stimulate your mind even when school is not in session. Plus you can read outside and enjoy the beautiful weather,” Richardson said.

In-Depth

M a y 17, 2 013

Th e C o r r e s p o n d e n t

7

Lots at Lolla Students attend popular concert Jessica Lynk 160,000 people will gather in Grant Park this summer for the musical festival, Lollapalooza.

Sophomores Jamie Chamerlain and Kayla Knauss will be some among the crowd.

“Their line up has a lot of good bands, and it’s nice to hear a couple songs from a ton of groups than a ton of songs from a couple of groups,” Knauss said.

Many students take summer as an opportunity to go to enjoy concerts, but Lollapalooza seems to stand out among the rest.

“Lolla is better than other music festivals because it really appeals to not only my musical taste, but to a wide variety of musical genres, plus it is one of the biggest in the area,” Chamberlain said.

T h e festival includes multiple genres like c o u nt r y, alternative r o c k , and punk rock.

The line-up for this year includes Lana Del Ray, The Lumineers, Matt and Kim, Ellie Goulding, Eric Church, The Killers, and Mumford & Sons.

“I’m excited to see Mumford and Sons, but I’m really excited to see The Lumineers and Lana Del Rey, I’ve wanted to see both of them in concert for the longest time, along with Azealia Banks who is a guilty pleasure of mine,” Chamberlain said.

Lollapalooza gives students an opportunity to enjoy music with friends and strangers.

“I’m excited about seeing all these performers and also the atmosphere at Lolla will be like a giant party, so it should be fun,” Knauss said.

fro-yo

‘Froyo’ offers a sweet treat Caitlin Strozewski

Over the summer, students enjoy going to a variety of places with their friends. Of all the summer attractions, getting food is one of the most popular. A recent survey ranked frozen yogurt or ‘froyo’ shops as the number one food places for high school students during the summer.

Froyo allows students to have the ability to mix and match a variety of frozen yogurts, toppings, and sauces. This can be refreshing for those who are bored with the limited options of traditional ice cream places. The variety of toppings can satisfy everyone--from chocolate lovers to fruit fanatics.

“I love the variety of toppings.

There’s something for everyone,” sophomore Shannon Cunnigham said.

Froyo offers students a way to cool off and escape from the summer heat. Many froyo shops are in the area. At Randhurst, students can stop by

Menchies after a busy day of shopping or a movie. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating, and is in a convenient location for those who live in or near Mount Prospect.

“I like Menchies better than Yogurtland because it is closer to my house, but I think Menchies is more expensive,” sophomore Cassie Zouras said.

Another location is Yogurtland in Arlington Heights. Like Menchies, Yogurtland is conveniently located near other stores in downtown Arlington Heights.

“Yogurtland is delicious. It’s my favorite, and it is located right in downtown Arlington,” Cunningham said.

No matter where students go to get their froyo, most end up satisfied. With the freedom of controlling every aspect of their yogurt and the excitement of trying daring flavor combinations, this trend has become the go-to place for those students with a sweet tooth.

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In-Depth

Th e C o r r e s p o n d e n t

u o y e v o l I .P S., a^ ybe) m ( Dating differs daily in definition Mili Pandya While the concept of dating may appear simple, the idea of an actual date is more complex.

The biggest debate over what a date is probably deals with who should even be there.

“I think it has to be one on one and one person has to ask the other,” sophomore Laura Bjankini said.

However, not all dates need to be only one couple. Going on dates with other friends, whether they are dating or not, isn’t uncommon, either.

“A date is just being with that special someone-- it could be alone or with friends,” sophomore Zachary Lingen said.

When two people decide they want to get to know each other better and decide to venture out on their first date, most people agree that it should be private, yet casual.

“It should be something simple that’s not too crazy, and it’s only the two people,” junior Alisyn Greenfield said.

“The first date should consist of talking and getting to know the other person better, but also something more like going out to dinner after a movie,” Lingen said.

Unless it’s just hanging out, any date will have people pulling out their wallets, the costliest being going out for a movie or eating dinner. However, it’s quite common to see a guy grabbing and paying the check.

“The guy should pay for the night, but the

a m Fro t e r c se r e r i adm

f e b r u a r y 15 , 2 013

girl shouldn’t order the most expensive thing on the menu unless it’s a special occasion,” Lingen said.

Although it may expected of guys to pay, most girls agree that it shouldn’t become a habit. While special dates may be an exception, girls shouldn’t avoid paying their half of the bill.

“They can pay for the first date, but after that they definitely shouldn’t be paying for everything after that,” sophomore Zeynep Abat said.

As kids get older, these dating ‘norms’ will obviously evolve and change.

“You’ll spend more time with that person-- it’s more serious than a teenage relationship,” Lingen said.

In-Depth

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Roses are red, violets are blue Students rid of dating taboo

Th e C o r r e s p o n d e n t

7

What lyrics remind you of Valentine’s Day?

Natalie Czarnota are exclusive. But it’s all in the importance of Ashley Hawkins always being connected nowadays. Everyone While dating and relationships don’t come with an instruction manual, there are some unofficial rules that people are expected to follow.

The question of how a date differs from just hanging out perplexes students, since everything in a relationship between two people changes when the line between ‘just hanging out’ and ‘dating’ is crossed. However, what happens after that varies in each relationship.

“Every relationship isn’t the same, so it’s hard to make generalizations,” senior Ryan Vorndran said.

In some cases, couples do something special on a date, such as dressing up and going out to dinner. Other times, however, the line between dating and hanging out is smeared and couples treat a date as something completely ordinary.

“Could be going out ice skating during the winter months or staying in and doing homework together on a Sunday,” senior Clarissa Cruz said.

A specific amount of time doesn’t dictate when a relationship becomes ‘serious.’ Rather, students seem to agree that a relationship is brought to that next level when a couple is completely comfortable with each other and is willing to devote themselves to one another.

“A relationship becomes serious when both people go beyond just attraction and feel something more than that, also when they feel comfortable telling one another anything even if it is not what the other necessarily would want to hear,” senior Jamey Hill said.

“I think a relationship becomes serious when each person realizes that they have mutual feelings of affection for the other. More of a commitment. And especially when meeting parents/families are brought into the equation,” senior Justine Bowes said.

There is a saying among students that “it’s not official until it’s Facebook official.” While becoming Facebook official isn’t necessary to make a relationship official, it asserts that it’s public knowledge and lets everyone know what is going on.

“It’s to let the general public know that you

has to know what everyone else is up to,” Bowes said.

However, not all students enjoy receiving constantly changing notifications about other student’s love lives, and find it unnecessary.

“Going Facebook official is just a way to show off to all of your friends,” junior Julia Petrusan said.

There are also certain moral expectations that are demanded in a relationship. Most of them are common sense things that are the foundation of a stable relationship.

“I would say honesty and respect are most important. Expectations would be to make time for your boyfriend or girlfriend, and to treat them the way you would want them to treat you,” Hill said.

The expectations that are put on the roles of each gender are just another thing that shows how each relationship is different.

“I personally don’t believe that gender roles attribute much to a relationship. Women are more independent in this era and men aren’t expected to baby them. I pay on dates and sometimes we even switch off who pays depending on how much money we have (because we both work). I just see gender roles as more of a 50s thing or when our parents were growing up,” Bowes said.

Celebrating Valentine’s Day and anniversaries doesn’t have to be that big of a deal. Extravagant gifts such as bouquets of flowers and diamond jewelry aren’t necessities to express one’s feelings.

“If you’ve been dating a while, then any gift is appropriate, but if you haven’t been dating long then a small and simple gift is probably more acceptable,” senior Sally Tran said.

“I’d say the thought is more important than the money value.”

“It is about expressing how you feel more than buying a bunch of gifts,” Cruz said.

Saying “I love you” is a big step in a relationship, but much like getting serious, there is no specific time frame to tell when the time is right.

“It depends on the couple. A person will know when it’s time to say it,” Tran said.

“All I do is win, win, win, no matter what” -freshman Jeremy Kush

“Love me, love me, say that you love me” -sophomore Elise Bang

“Home is whenever I’m with you” -junior Katyee Okon

TO WRITE A LETTEr TO A SECRET CRUSH GO TO CORRE LIVE

“We are never, ever, ever ever getting back together.” senior Ellie Lovisetto

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Th e C o r r e s p o n d e n t

Boyle-ing it D O W with N BRian Boyle

Student search for Sugarman in documentary

Every few generations, an artist comes along who culturally defines an entire society. Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Jimmi Hendrix, and Michael Jackson are often considered to be the greatest and most significant musicians to ever grace our nation.

First time director Malik Bendjelloul’s brilliant, heartwarming, and inspirational documentary “Searching for Sugarman” chronicles the story of a struggling inner city Detroit pop-rock artist in the mid-70’s, simply named Rodriguez, who by all means should’ve been, and deserved to be, among the greats.

Yet, somehow, he slipped into utter obscurity, with his first two albums being absolute fiscal failures, unknown to even the most hard-core and niche collectors.

Unbeknownst to Rodriguez or his record label, he explodes in South Africa, where his antiestablishment message becomes the perfect anthem for the protests against an oppressive governments and the apartheid.

“Searching for Sugarman” expertly cuts between archives of Rodriguez’s Detroit story, as well as two South African journalists in the 90’s, who attempt to track down their long-assumed deceased cultural icon.

Interspersed throughout the film are a handful of samples of Rodriguez’s best work, set to ingeniously conceived and beautifully designed animation sequences. It’s engaging and vivid, providing brief intermissions to the fact-heavy storytelling, instead spotlighting the music behind this nonfiction narrative.

While most documentaries dilute to thick political messages, shoddy journalism, and borderline propaganda, “Searching For Sugarman” instead tells an incredibly human tale of a full-on manhunt for a country’s mysterious musical hero.

The result is a story so unbelievably heartfelt, genuine, and astonishing, that if this film was not told in documentary format I’d be hard-pressed to believe it.

I refuse to give away too much, but the final act of the movie offers an incredibly satisfying and emotional resonant conclusion that inspires and invigorates all kinds of wonder.

Don’t be pushed away by the documentary format; “Searching for Sugarman” is just as engaging and memorable as any recent traditional film. Its well-deserved “Best Documentary” win at the latest Academy Awards has given this fantastic feature some much-needed publicity. Certainly a must-see for music lovers and lifelong dreamers alike.

Reviews

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Take it

‘Warm Bodies’ warms hearts

“Warm Bodies” doesn’t exactly sound like a cute, thoughtprovoking movie- it’s about a zombie boy who falls in love with a human girl and continues to embark on adventures with her until their love brings him back to life. However, that’s exactly what it is.

Released on Feb. 1, the film has been rather successful in theaters. The movie’s heartwarming plot, cleverly placed humor, and well-developed

characters make it a flick worth seeing. The combination of action, romance, and thrill combine to create a varied audience, so anyone can enjoy it. After only a few scenes, viewers will enjoy R (zombie boy) confess his true feelings about being a zombie, look for ways to impress his crush, and figure out a way to become the man he once was.

When looking for the perfect paranormal romantic zombie comedy, “Warm Bodies” is the way to go.

• JULIA KEDZIOR

Lately all the movies I have been watching are highly anticipated and publicized, but this time I decided to mix it up a bit and go with something a little less well-known.

What intrigued me first about “The First Time” was that it was featured in the Sundance Film Festival (known for the most amazing indie movies).

Long story short, the movie was a disappointment.

I didn’t find the plot refreshing or cute. I gave it so many chances; I wanted to like it, but there was no hope. Worst of all, the story plot literally went nowhere. I could have been gone for half the movie and not have missed anything significant.

This movie is perfect for a 13-year-old girl with nothing to do on a Friday night except play Scrabble with her parents.

For everyone else, I suggest watching pretty much anything else.

• FRANCESCA HERNADEZ

OR

‘The First Time’ not worth the time

Leave it

Hidden YouTube treasure finds junior Michael Miller

hilarious running commentary of the film that points out its flaws through various riffs and jokes.

The characters appear as silhouettes at the bottom If the internet was made up of biomes and ecosystems like the earth, of the screen in a superimposed row of movie theater YouTube would be the Amazon Rain- seats.

Yes, the show itself is rather cheesy (and the set/ forest.

Just as the real Amazon is a vast character design just screams 90’s), but it is precisely jungle with millions of plant and ani- this lack of seriousness that makes the show so funny.

Basically, MST3K is the ultimate peanut gallery: mal species, so too is YouTube a digital jungle of the funny, grotesque, viral, and overall unique videos that a funny, bored audience riffing on a really bad movie.

Like I said, the the internet has to ofshow is absolutely hifer. larious. For some epiSometimes, rare sodes, I had to pause diamonds are extractthe show at multied from the rainforest, ple points because I and YouTube as well couldn’t stop laughing. can produce these hidPerhaps the hidden gems if looked for den value in MST3K, persistently. though, is that it actuIt is in this context ally provides a great of exploring the vast social commentary for recesses of YouTube many of the educathat I discovered Mystional productions it tery Science Theater satirizes.

3000.

The 50’s are wellI honestly don’t known for cultural remember the chain of homogeneity and events that brought me strict moral codes, and there, but it most likely MST3K spares no exinvolved more than a pense in joking about few clicks on related these old-fashioned videos and a lack of • WWW.MST3K.com worldviews. anything better to do. ystery Science Theater 3000 is one of the many hidden By riffing on vidTo be fair, Mystery videos that have lasted as America has digitalized. Myseos with topics like Science Theater 3000 tery Science Theater 3000 is one of the marvels of the 90’s, that gender roles, MST3K (MST3K for short) was can still be found thanks to websites like YouTube. gives modern viewers originally a TV series a way to see old social in the 90’s, so it is not conventions in an entertaining way, all the while gentechnically a YouTube original.

Its survival on the internet, however, has allowed uinely offering a glimpse into the primary sources of me and countless others to enjoy a show that probably another era. In this way, it has the rare double benefit of entertaining while informing. would be long forgotten otherwise.

Unlike a diamond found in the Amazon Basin, Essentially, MST3K is a show that makes fun of cheesy 1950’s science fiction B-movies and assorted MST3K is a hidden gem that can be, and should be shared. educational videos from that time.

It’s no mystery why Mystery Science Theater 3000 It features a man and his two robot sidekicks who are trapped on a spaceship and forced to watch the has survived on the internet backwaters all these years, and it deserves a spot with all the political and social movies by an evil scientist.

While watching the movies, the group maintains a satire that is prominent in entertainment today.

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Entertainment

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Th e C o r r e s p o n d e n t

Orchesis refuses to take backseat

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‘Passenger Seat’ to perform at Illinois High School Dance Festival Brian Loomis Jessica Lynk Orchesis director Jennifer Foss spent Saturday Feb. 23 waiting for a phone call. This call would tell her if one of the dances that Orchesis auditioned earlier that day would make it, for the second time in a row, to the Illinois High School Dance Festival.

“Last year we had a huge honor, we were the finale of the show and we also hadn’t made it to state in about six to seven years before that,” Foss said.

Foss’ phone did ring on Feb. 23, and the group has been selected to perform at the Illinois High School Dance Festival on May 11 at Maine West High School “I can’t explain how exciting it is, just to seeas a director -how excited they are,” Foss said.

This year’s winning dance was entitled Passenger Seat and was choreographed by seniors Andrea Marti and Erin Johnson. Both got the idea over summer to choreograph the dance because they were inspired by the song “Passenger Seat” by Death Cab for Cutie.

Seniors Danielle Rivard and Briana Ulbert, as well as juniors Katie Kowols and Bailey Street, perform in the dance along with Marti and Johnson.

The dance starts off with the six girls sitting together. As the dance proceeds, they break off from one another, but end the performance in their original arrangement of six.

“We interrupted it as our group of stability is the six people in the dance, and throughout your life you experience separations from the group but no matter what you come back. That’s

why we end the dance and start the dance in the same way,” Johnson added The group had to overcome some challenges on performance day in order to make sure they could represent Orchesis again.

“It is a one time deal on a stage that is completely different than ours, which makes it so much different,” Foss said.

When a group is interested in qualifying for State, it acquires three judges at random who then watch two performances, that Orchesis picks, from the school. They have a 20 minute time slot with nei• COURTESY OF ORCHESIS ther lighting nor extras, merely enior Erin Johnson, senior Danielle Rivard, junior Katie Kowols, their stage costumes. senior Andrea Marti, senior Briana Ulbert, and junior Bailey The girls worked well to- Street come together to conclude their performance of ‘Passenger gether in order to create a cohe- Seat’. The group will take their talents to Maine West on May 11 to sive dance that was able to por- perform this number one last time. tray their theme of unity.

“It is exciting because we knowing I was able to go twice,” Rivard said. have always been close throughout the years, The girls will get the opportunity to win because there are four seniors and two juniors scholarships, learn new techniques from guest in it, and we’ve really grown close together over choreographers, and show off what they have the years. It is nice having a dance of just close worked hard for throughout the year. friends,” Rivard said.

As for Foss, she was excited to get the phone Rivard has been given the opportunity to call. perform again at the state level, this being her “I’m very excited and proud of what the second year in a row. group has accomplished over these two years. It “It is very exciting. At state it is also a work- opens up new doors, new goals for us to achieve. shop, so I’m excited to see the teachers from last Also, it gets them recognized outside of Hersey,” year, if they are still there. It is just rewarding Foss said.

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