Summer
A Knight’s Tale
Summer 2009
SIZZLES! the hot 100 St. Mary’s:
JOIN US FOR SUMMER
DESIGN
STUDIO WORKSHOPS IN -
MEDIA
FASHION CULINARY
“I’m With The Band - Extreme Band Makeover” is this year’s exciting theme for Summer Studio - June 21st through the 26th. Teens will collaborate with a local band, a real world client, and show off their creative skills. Guided by The Art Institute of Phoenix faculty members, the Summer Studio students will give the band an extreme makeover by designing a new logo, concert poster, website, music video, retail display, backstage buffet, a green room and more.
To learn more and register, visit
Join us for
www.aipxstudio.com
MAY 30, 2009 AUGUST 8, 2009 TOUR the school LEARN about programs offered MEET faculty members FIND out about Financial Aid (For those who qualify) EXPLORE senior scholarships & competitions COMPLETE your pre-application for admissions
To learn more and RSVP, visit www.aiopen.com/phoenix 2233 West Dunlap Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85021
www.artinstitutes.edu/phoenix
K12 gets kids thinking big. It’s what happens when they realize that math is everywhere. That “¾ time” can create a waltz. That four beats per measure rocks! That math makes music. That’s thanks to K12 and our award-winning curriculum, individualized to bring learning alive, one child at a time. Every subject is delivered online, with hands-on activities, plus books and support from expert teachers.
when kids get into learning, learning gets into them. Options include: : 2** 1'+# 12'1'-, $/## .2 *'! 0!&--*',% ', + ,6 01 1#0 : , !!/#"'1#" -,*',# ./'3 1# 0!&--* 3 '* *# , 1'-,4'"# : Over 150 individual courses including foreign languages, > ," #*#!1'3#0 3 '* *# $-/ "'/#!1 .2/!& 0# # /# +#/'! 0 * /%#01 -,*',# !2//'!2*2+ ./-3'"#/ $-/ %/ "#0 K through 12. Because we give every student a chance to think big. Learn more at K12.com.
Do you really want to be the same as all the other kids in your high school? You’re different. You want to play guitar. Go to Mars. Be the next Steve Jobs. The next Barack Obama. 1 1&# /'7-, '/12 * ! "#+6 4# 2,"#/01 ," "'$$#/#,1 #! 20# 4# /# "'$$#/#,1 We’re a 21st century school for 21st !#,12/6 )'"0 ," 4# /# 12'1'-, $/## Learn more at an online or in-person event—including AZVA On-Display, & ..#,',% # !& /'" 6 ', 6 1 1&# -$9!#0 ', &-#,'5 '0'1 !-+ 7 for complete details and a full listing of events.
www.K12.com/az | 866.339.4949
azTeen magazine
Issue No. 10 Vol. 2 - May/June/July 2009 Summer
editorial Publisher Deb Rochford Editor-in-Chief Michelle Burgess Art Coordinator Veronica Sherbina
i
love, love, love our annual Hot 100 issue because it is always cool to be a part of something that recognizes and acknowledges all of the amazing things that students, faculty, staff, coaches, administrators and parents are doing to make Valley high schools successful. This year we got nearly 200 nominations from 44 different schools. A few schools really went to town; Horizon, Mountain Pointe, Queen Creek, Millennium and Desert Ridge topped the list in number of nominations. Congratulations to all our winners, from #1 Wayne Unger, our only two-time Hot 100 honoree, to #100, Chandler track coach Eric Richardson. Congrats too to our new 2009-2010 azTeen staff, whom we introduce with this issue. To all of them and all our readers, I wish a safe, happy, fun summer. Photo: Justine Craft
creative Art Direction s w ! t c h STUDIO Design Jaclyn Threadgill
Webmaster Tony Subia Photography Marcus Hoffman
styling Wardrobe Veronica Sherbina Jessica Lopez
hair and make-up Stylists Robert Mooney Lindsay King Kohler Academy
Makeup Artist Jessica Shinyeda FORD/Robert Black Agency
advertising
Deb Rochford drochford@azteenmagazine.com 602-363-2139
liaison Bridget Costello St. Mary’s High School
Ice Cold Souljas
Michelle Burgess Editor-in-Chief
Editors dtk: Hotshots:
Alexis Gonzalez, Xavier ‘10
Brittany Alloway Paradise Valley Community College
Jennifer Na, Xavier ‘11
dtk:
Stefani Jones, Chaparral ‘10
Ashley Nelson-Parker Arizona State University
AZTEEN WORLD HEADQUARTERS 3219 E. Camelback Rd., Suite 363 Phoenix, Arizona 85018 602-955-TEEN • azteenmagazine.com MySpace.com/azteen_magazine Facebook: azTeen Magazine
Bree Purdy, Corona del Sol ’11
Music:
interns Jessica Lopez Arizona State University
Staff
Special Projects:
Vivian Padilla, Arcadia ‘10
Community:
Yassamin Ansari, Chaparral ‘10
Subscriptions are free!
For home delivery, subscribe on-line at azteenmagazine.com. If requesting delivery to your school or business, email drochford@azteenmagazine.com. To order extra copies, send a check for $3 per copy to the address above and indicate which issue you are requesting along with your phone number. azTeen Magazine is published 7 times a year and is selectively distributed throughout Arizona. The entire contents of this publication is © copyright azTeen, all rights reserved, and may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission from the publishers.
Last Word:
Lindsey Halfhill, Veritas ‘10
azTeenmagazine.com
Collegiate:
Caitlin Cole, Gilbert ‘10
Bianca Armenta Julianne Brenenstuhl Morgan Brewster Cassie Brucci Federika Cariati HaeSoo Cheon Eliza Collins Katie Egan Kelly Fleming Kayla Frost Mikaela Gibson Brittany Hardy Dylan Janis Justin Jerrell Liz Keyser Ben Kitnick Kaitlin Lang Jordan Laughlin Donnella Lincoln Carolina Lopez Aneesa Lytle Breanna Moret Anita Nath Emily Piskulick Rhiannon Polak Rachel Rogala Rachel Stillman Taylor Turkeltaub St. Mary’s Correspondents Lauren Guzman, ‘10 Stephanie Gutierrez, ‘10 Victoria Munson, ‘10 Juliana Manzanarez, ‘09 summer 2009
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24
38 10
31 Features 17 The Hot 100
13
azTeen recognizes 100 amazing students, administrators, teachers, staff, coaches and parents who are getting it right at Valley high schools
12
DEPARTMENTS
dtk/Down to Know Music Q&A with Goodnight Darling, Step Cousins, The Friday Night Boys, the Buzz music calendar
08
The Sounds of Summer
17
We ask local musicians what songs remind them of this scorching season
10
5Q/Chicklicious summer reads/He said, she said/Beat-the-heat ideas/ What They’re Wearing 11
Sections
On the Cover Kristi Hintze and Miguel Alcocer All clothing and accessories provided by Roxy and Quiksilver Photo: Marcus Hoffman, MarcusHoffmanPhotography.com
Territory St. Mary’s Dedication to tradition is heart and soul of every Knight
31
Last Word What’s the best thing about summer? 38
On Kristi – Roxy Rebel Beatnik Bandeau Bikini Top - $44.00 Smashing Tee - $34.50 Malibu Shorts in Deconstruction Blue - $39.50 Can’t Wait Vest - $49.50 Roxy and JBL® headphones - $69.95
On Miguel – Pure Logic Tee - $25.00 Zephyr 18.5” Shorts in Peru Blue - $55.00 Whole Hole Belt in Retro - $18.00 Rayban Wayfarers in White – Model’s own
azTeenmagazine.com
On Set – Kelly Slater: For The Love Book - $35.00 The Mountain Book - $49.95 Quiksilver Summertime Beach Towel - $36.00 Roxy Beachi Beach Towel - $34.00 Longboard – Miguel’s own Roxy Plumeria Sandals - $34.00 summer 2009
7
music
Goodnight Q&A
Darling G
oodnight Darling is a band whose members specialize in producing rock music that is often tranquil or ethereal. They love creating music and playing shows, so catch ‘em onstage around the Valley or visit MySpace.com/ Goodnightdarlingmusic. Check out the following interview of the band for answers to some atypical questions. azTeen: What is one thing you couldn’t live without, and why? Nick Orso, vocals/guitar: Probably my hands, because I couldn’t do anything I love!
Mikey Fanizza, guitar (Payson, ‘04): Jesus and Tom Hanks. I know that’s two, and Tom isn’t even close to Jesus. But we’re all on a first-name basis. Gustavo “Tav” Gonzalez (Marcos de Niza, ‘05), drums: My girlfriend, Beth, because I would be a mess without her (I get “good boyfriend” points for this answer). azTeen: Where would be the coolest place to play a show? Nick: On a houseboat with a crowd of peeps in inner tubes!!! Mikey: I’ve heard The Premier in Seattle is amazing, although I’m not sure if it’s still there. And Seattle is one of my favorite places.
azTeen: Skittles or M&M’s? Pepsi or Coca-Cola? Nick: M&M’s (but only peanut) and Pepsi (only vanilla). Tav: Skittles, because you can taste the rainbow! Neither—I like iced teas, but if there were just the 2, Coca-Cola.
azTeen: If you could become any superhero, who would you be and why? Mikey: I would suck as a superhero. But I guess I would be the Green Power Ranger. Jared Pettinato (Red Mountain, ‘08), guitar/vocals: Superman. What could be better than flying around all day?
azTeen: What’s your favorite part of summer? Nick: Laughing at kids in summer school! Mikey: When it isn’t summer. Everywhere in the world has an amazing summer. But in Phoenix, at 10 at night, expect it to be at least 122 degrees. The rest of the year is perfect though. Tav: Going swimming in my pool at least once in the entire summer.
azTeen: What’s your favorite Goodnight Darling song to play live? Mikey: Any one that requires Jared to melt people’s faces, where Nick has a head-bang radius of 6 feet, and Stavi brings out his spear to destroy his drum set. That, or probably the new one Home is Nowhere. Which calls for all of the above anyways.
azTeen: What is another instrument you’d love to learn to play? Nick: The fiddle, so I can join Carrie Underwood’s band. Mikey: Harp.
Step Cousins
azTeen: If you could be the host of any game or talk show, which show would it be? Mikey: Oprah. But it wouldn’t be called Oprah. Jared: It’s a 3-way tie between The Price is Right, America’s Funniest Home Videos and Jeopardy (I would love to be like Alex Trebek). Tav: I’d be the host for the game show from oldschool Nickelodeon Legends of the Hidden Temple! —Kayla Frost, Desert Vista ‘09
Genre-defying band defines its style and finds fans along the way
F
inding its musical niche was a process of trial and error for Step Cousins, a four-piece band made up of Brophy students. “We just want our music to be heard by as many people as possible, and we are hopefully trying to do something different,” says guitarist Brant Stuns, ‘10. The band is off to a good start, having been compared to indie bands like Tokyo Police Club and Santogold. “Yeah we started as pop-punk, and it was kind of boring and we sucked at it, so we tried a dance band and we sucked at that too, so here we are now,” says lead vocalist and bassist Andrew McKee, ‘10. Step Cousins’ genre of music is definitely different from popular bands both local and national, incorporating a little bit of everything into its repertoire and winding up with a sound
8
summer 2009
that’s a little bit retro-dance/Talking Heads-esque mixed with a drum-heavy and atmospheric sound. A strange combination perhaps, but it works for Step Cousins. “We are just sick of the stereotype these days that every other band is pop-punk, metal or rap,” Brant says. The band’s eponymous EP is available for download on the Step Cousins’ MySpace page. And the guys have big plans for summer, with no time to spare if they want to promote and introduce their music to future listeners. “I want this new EP to give people an idea of what we finally sound like,” Brant says. “We have gone through so many changes in the past year that it’s good we finally have something solid to give people.” In addition to Brant and Andrew, Step Cousins also consists of keyboardist Austin Gomez, and ’09 grad, and drummer Michael
azTeenmagazine.com
Mandeville, ‘11. Be on the lookout during these next couple of months for shows all across Arizona, featuring free EP distribution. A new EP is already in the works. Check them out at MySpace.com/ TheStepCousins — Jennifer Na, Xavier ‘11
buzz
the
Local Music
The Friday Night Boys -pop
Rising stars of power are enjoying the ride
S
ometimes a band will have to toil for its success, while other times, success seems to come easily. Both situations apply to Virginia-based power-pop band The Friday Night Boys. Lead vocalist and guitarist Andrew Goldstein wrote the band’s first songs as a joke back in 2006. But he and the rest of the band, including bassist Robby Dallas Reider, backup vocalist/guitarist Mike Toohey and drummer Chris Barrett, soon realized that they had a pretty good sound. “At the very beginning, I didn’t really know what to do,” Andrew says of the songwriting process. “But there are legit songs. Granted, some are funnier about funny things.” Adds Mike: “We’re just a bunch of goofballs.” They were doing something right, as their first EP, The Sketch Process, sold more than 45,000 copies when the band was still unsigned. Says Andrew, “We think it’s awesome. It’s a very sweet achievement for all of us because honestly, I didn’t think we could ever sell that many tracks initially, especially because we didn’t have the help of a label, so it’s very cool. We feel honored and we love the fact that a lot of people are getting ahold of our music.” TFNB appeared on MTV’s TRL On Your Radar, an experience Andrew says “was incredible. It was very surreal, very cool. It was an honor to play because we watch TRL so much.” If their sillier songs were their secret to fame, TFNB has found staying power with a more refined sound that incorporates catchy hooks and melodic harmonies. Many of their songs are about relationships. Now that they are signed to Fueled by Ramen, the members of TFNB have been busy with constant touring; unfortunately, as of press time there were no new Phoenix dates scheduled. Their funniest moment, according to Chris, occurred on the Guys Guys Guys Tour this past March. “We were actually driving to a campsite in Padre Island (Texas), and we go out there and we’re like ‘alright, I think this is the access road to the camping ground,’ and we drive and it’s a sand road and we go in,” he says, “and for a sec we’re like ‘wait,’ and we stop, and it’s the ocean! And we straight up drove onto the beach and tried turning around, but we got stuck. So we had to unload everything from our trailer and dig out the tires, and we finally got out an hour and a half later.” But that was just another bump in the road for the “goofballs” of TFNB. It will take a lot more than a detour in the sand to derail these rising stars.
May 7//
May 26//
May 8//
May 29//
Modified Arts The Stiletto Formal w/ The Forecast, Death in the Park The Clubhouse Capa To The Sun CD Release w/ Special Guests
May 9//
Venue of Scottsdale K & Z Palooza DVD Release Party
May 16//
Chyro Arts Sorry Cali w/ Holly Marcum, and Special Guests
May 16//
Modified Arts The Life and Times w/ Kinch
May 19//
The Martini Ranch The Airborne Toxic Event w/ Special Guests
May 21//
Marquee Theatre Tech N9ne w/ Murs, Krizz Kaliko, Kutt Calhoun, Intrinzik
May 22//
Modified Arts Forgive Durden w/ You, Me and Everyone We Know and Anarbor Marquee Theatre 40 oz To Freedom (Sublime Tribute Band) w/ The Energy, Valley Love
May 31//
Marquee Theatre Jagermeister Tour featuring Pepper and Pennywise w/ Authority Zero, Death By Stereo
June 5//
Chasers The Ready Set, Watchout! There’s Ghosts
June 6//
Marquee Theatre The Atomic Punks w/ Voodoo, Breakout (a tribute to the Foo Fighters), Grind (a tribute to Alice In Chains), I Don’t Know (a tribute to Ozzy Osborne)
June 9//
Marquee Theatre Taking Back Sunday w/ Anberlin, Envy On The Coast
Marquee Theatre Dark Lotus w/ DJ Clay, Psychopathic Rydas, Chop Shop, Awesome Dre
June 17//
May 23//
June 19//
May 24//
June 24//
The Clubhouse We Shot The Moon w/ The Summer Set Marquee Theatre Propagandhi w/ Bridge and Tunnel
May 24//
The Clubhouse Fun w/ Manchester Orchestra, Audreye Sessions, Winston Audio
May 25//
Modified Arts PlayRadioPlay! w/ Lydia
Check them out at MySpace.com/TheFridayNightBoys
Modified Arts Telepathe
The Clubhouse Me Without You w/ The Dear Hunter Marquee Theatre Xavier Rudd w/ Special Guests
July 25//
Marquee Theatre The Who Show (The Who Tribute Band) w/ Special Guests
August 8//
The Clubhouse The Cab w/ Special Guests — Compiled by Music Editor Jennifer Na
— Jennifer Na azTeenmagazine.com
summer 2009
9
T he
Sounds
of
Summer
answer Local musicianshat song the question ‘W summer ?’ reminds you of
“Definitely Summer Nights from the Grease soundtrack. One word: Epic.” —Graham Orthmann, drums, Emerald Honor
“Switchfoot’s Meant to Live is an amazing song and always reminds me of summer and good times with friends.” —Stephen Spears, bass, Raining and OK
“My favorite summer song has got to be 5 Years Time by Noah and the Whale. It just has such a good vibe. I live up in the mountains, so it is really cold here until April or May. Just listening to that song warms the air and brings in the summer.” —Tyler Cox, lead singer, Alaska and Me
“Been Gettin’ Money by Project Pat is a great summer song because that’s when the pool is poppin’, and it always puts me in a good mood.” –Austin Gibbs, Austin Gibbs and the States
“My favorite song for summer is Amber by 311. I know it has nothing to do with summer, but when I hear it, I just picture me and all my best friends at the water park just running around and splashing.”
“Ice Cream by Muscles. Even the name screams summer to me. Whenever I hear it I feel like I’m sitting next to the pool with “In the summer I tend to get into a folk/rock an ice cream cone in hand. I listened to this mood, so mine would have to be Going To song on the way home from school every California by Led Zeppelin. It’s not your day before summer last year and I plan on typical jam-out-with-windows-down song, doing the same thing again this year. I can’t but I still think it encompasses the slower, get enough!” more relaxing side of summertime that I –Brandon Peters, guitar, London Airspace enjoy the most.” —Marto Cordova, guitar, Emerald Honor
“20 Dollar Nose Bleed by Fall Out Boy is a perfect summer sing along. It’s fun, catchy, “When I think of hot, sexy, magical and will have you and your friends singing summer nights, I think about listening to at the top of your lungs.” Hit ‘em Up by Tupac or The Sign by Ace —Chris Wahl, guitar, Crash Coordinates of Base. Nothing makes me think about beaches, girls and parties more than “Definitely Semi Charmed Life by Third those two jams. Maybe if 2pac listened to Eye Blind. That song seems to just Ace of Base, the world would have been a resonate the sound of summer for me and better place.” brings back past memories of summer —Ryan Speer, guitar, Good with Grenades break when I was kid.”
“Any summer playlist has to include some songs by the Backstreet Boys. When summer starts, you can get super–Josh Leon, lead vocals and guitar, London Airspace pumped by listening to Everybody (Backstreet’s Back). Then when your “Into the Airwaves by Jack’s Mannequin. summer love breaks it off you can listen This song reminds me of driving through to Show Me The Meaning of Being California with all the windows down. Lonely. Finally you sing Shape Of My It kind of makes me let go from all the Heart to her to try to win her back.” seriousness and just slip into the season of —Vincent Liou, synth/percussion, Crash Coordinates summer.” –Sean Adams, bass, London Airspace
“I think my favorite summer songs would be Beg Waves by Ponytail, Sleepyhead by Passion Pit, and 1901 by Phoenix. I listen to these songs year-round but they are extra awesome during the summertime.”
summer 2009
“Mine is a song called Caring is Creepy by The Shins. On my way to California, I had this playlist on my mp3 player that I listened to constantly and that song was one of my favorite ones. So now it always reminds me of summer and long road trips.” –Jon Renner, drums, London Airspace
“This past summer I got really into the band Boys Like Girls. I think their song “My favorite jam last summer (and don’t Five Minutes To Midnight is a great prejudge me) was I Need You by Alicia Keys, gaming song for the perfect summer night. because it grooves way hard and makes me It’s good to sing along and blast with the warm inside like soup.” windows down with a few friends. It’s just —Alex Silverman, bass, This Century a feel-good song.” —Kevin Williams, bass, Crash Coordinates
— Brant Stuns, guitar, Step Cousins.
10
—Trevor Tillery, vocals/guitar, Raining and OK
azTeenmagazine.com
QUESTIONS
5
FOR...
How much time do you spend dancing? It’s my life! (The Mercury team) practices four hours a week and are at every Mercury home game. We also schedule additional appearances in the community throughout the year. I also teach at various studios. What is the coolest thing about what you do? That I get to do what I love! It’s not work to me. It’s what I was born to do, and I love being able to share my passion with other people that have the same passion. How do you feel about the explosion in popularity that hip-hop dance has seen over the past few years? I’m ecstatic. It is finally getting the recognition it deserves. People are starting to realize the hard work that people put into it. It’s not just dancing, it’s a way of life.
Chick-
truth is out there (in New Mexico)! The
Weezy
Red Mountain grad Luis “Weezy” Egurrola began dancing when he was 16 and has parlayed his passion for hip hop into a career as a dancer, coach and choreographer for the Phoenix Mercury Hip Hop Squad and other dance teams and as co-director of the EPIK Dance Company. How can a teenager who is reading this do what you do, and what is the process for getting where you are someday? Patience is key! Understanding, learning, being willing to step out of your comfort zone are important to get to where you want to be. Consistently practicing and performing in front of an audience will really help because you have to be confident and comfortable in what you are doing. I wish I had known to take more classes, because you can never have enough experience in what you love to do. You can never stop learning because there is always something new, always a new concept that is bigger and better. Any other advice for teenagers? No matter what you want to do, never give up. Even if it seems you will never reach your goal, you have to stick with whatever it is in order to achieve your dreams.
Being unbiased journalists, we can’t say that people who travel 12 hours to go to the July 2-5 Roswell UFO festival are kooks. The truth is, maybe they just want to go someplace less hot than here, rock out to this year’s musical guest, Jefferson Starship, and enjoy the fireworks and all of the people in elaborate alien costumes. For details, check out RoswellUFOFestival.com.
I my
car
“....because with my stereo, I can force my musical tastes, such as whatever my new favorite song is or my new band of the week, onto any car within 100 feet of mine.” —David Strauss, Corona del Sol ‘10, drives a 2000 Toyota 4-Runner
What better time than summer to haul around hot-pink tomes with cover photos of serious-yet-sultry teen it-girls and soapy plots centering around life at elite boarding schools, studly bad boys and summering on the Riviera? Escape our stifling heat for awhile with one of these very girly, very dramatic chick-lit offerings.
lic iou s!
Gorgeous by Rachel Vail
The Real Real by Emma McLaughlin
and Nicola Kraus Jesse O’Rourke has been selected to appear in a “documentary” being shot at her high school. She nearly turns down the offer but needs the check that goes along with it. All she has to do is reject her best friend to hang with the beautiful people and give up her privacy. The good news? Her crush (always a main character in these books) also made the cast. Penned by the authors of The Nanny Diaries, The Real Real is sure to be entertaining.
Sloane Sisters by Annabelle Vestry Sloane Sisters is slated to be the first in a new series a la The Clique and Gossip Girl. Uber-rich, Upper-East-Siders Cate and Andie see their lives disrupted when their dad meets and falls for a British model with two girls of her own. With marriage on the horizon, can this blended family ever hope to be the Brady Bunch? Or at least an all-girl, urbanchic version? Only one way to find out.
Allison is the ugly duckling in her family, a middle child stuck between two fabulously attractive sisters. Book 2 of a trilogy that began with Lucky, Gorgeous continues the saga as Allison deals with a bossy best friend, a seemingly unattainable crush (!) and probs with the fam.
Beautiful World
by Anastasia Hollings Amelia Warner lives in a crappy apartment with her dad but dreams of swapping lives with the wealthy and beautiful deb Courtney Moore. When the two girls meet, Courtney is thrilled to have a new confidante. Amelia, however, has ulterior motives and sets out to assume the life she thinks she deserves, even though that life belongs to someone else. First in a new series.
Hancock Park by Isabel Kaplan Becky lives the high life in LA, going to school with the offspring of movie stars but coming home to a family in crisis. In Hancock Park, she struggles to grow up sane while contending with the meanest mean girls imaginable while at school and a different range of problems at home. This is the first novel by Harvard student and LA native Isabel Kaplan.
azTeenmagazine.com
summer 2009
11
He said/She said
In what ways does the opposite sex have it easier?
“Girls usually only have to worry about being hurt by words, and not in a physical fight or anything. Guys won’t beat up on girls, and they treat them with more respect. I’m sometimes jealous of how girls are always the ones getting the doors held open for them. Guys don’t get treatment like that.” —Jason Hertzberg, Desert Mountain ‘10
Word of the Month
“I think girls have it easier than guys, actually. There are so many expectations for guys, like they’re supposed to make the first move and hold doors and give up their jacket. They are expected to be a gentleman, and girls act however they want. “ —Amanda Meachum,
Ambitextrous (adj): Able to text equally well with either hand. “That broken right thumb didn’t slow me down at all. I’m amazingly ambitextrous.”
Mountain Pointe ‘11
Guess what? Photo: Andy Hartmark Photography
It’s hot Chandler Cinemas Warner Road and Arizona Avenue
12
summer 2009
—Kelly Fleming, Saguaro ‘11
Arizona Derby Dames Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum and AZ State Fairgrounds at 19th Avenue and McDowell in Phoenix
If you haven’t seen real-life roller derby, you don’t know what you’re missing. This sport has it all: violence, athleticism, rabid fans, scantily clad women on skates. Seriously, it is a lot of fun and wildly addictive.
Info and tickets: DerbyDames.com (prices vary) Photo: Kill Homewrecker Photography
The home of way more than midnight showings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Chandler Cinemas shows classic B-movies and hosts film festivals, and this summer will be showing classics for the kid in all of us, like Shrek and E.T. The best part? Tickets are $2, except on Tuesdays when you can get in for a buck. Classic Animation Weekend is May 22 and 24. Support independent theater or there won’t be any left! Showtimes and info: Call Moviefone (602.222-3456) or visit ChandlerCinemas.com or MySpace. com/ChandlerCinemas
Of course you’re going to be in the pool a good part of every day. But the time will come when you’re pruny or sunburned or otherwise unwilling to spend another minute lounging on a floatie for hours on end. So here are a few other choices to help you beat the heat and make the summer just fly by.
San Diego Zoo
So it’s not exactly a secret, but how much do you appreciate having one of the best zoos in the world just a rockin’ road trip away? Open every day of the year, including holidays, the SDZ has pandas, polar bears, gorillas — lots of animals that can’t live in our fabulous Phoenix Zoo because of the heat. You don’t have to be a kid to love the zoo. Tickets: $26-$40 Details: SanDiegoZoo.org
Knott’s Berry Farm
Disney, shmizney. We love Knott’s Berry Farm for its lack of schlocky, schmaltzy sentimentalism. It’s all cool rides and pretty decent food — few if any costumed characters or cloying songs — and is located southeast of LA so you don’t have to go through downtown to get there. Visit the Wild Water Wilderness, and, if you’ve got the guts, ride the Silver Bullet (not for guests with neck problems!) or the Xcelerator (not for male guests who scream like little girls when they ride really scary roller coasters!) or the Supreme Scream (not for guests who wet their pants easily!). Tickets: $22-$52; discounts available online and through AAA Info: 714.220-5200 or Knotts.com
What they’re
… at North
wearing… … at Sunrise Mountain
Students are ready for the scorching summer weather with short sleeves and summer dresses. “I think my style is pretty relaxed and inexpensive,” says Brittany Bade, ’11. “I find most of my stuff from Forever 21 or on clearance racks in places like Buckle and Urban Outfitters.” It’s common to see Hurley and No Fear shirts on guys on campus and girls in embroidered tank tops and dresses. —Morgan Brewster, Sunrise Mountain ‘11
... at Chaparral
Firebirds have traded in their backpacks for the hottest look this summer. Shoulder bags have become the newest trend and are effortlessly cool. Coming in all different styles and sizes, shoulder bags can look anything from bohemian to preppy — it all depends on what style you want. “It’s so much easier to carry books with my hands free, and my bag reflects my personal style really well too,” says Maggie Fitzsimmons, ‘10. “It’s the perfect laid-back summer style.” —Stefani Jones, Chaparral ‘10
Polka-dots and stripes are soooo 2008. Plaid — not necessarily the superpreppy version our parents wore in the ‘80s — is the hot new style that anyone can rock and still look fabulous in. “Plaid makes me feel sophisticated but in a fresh, new way,” says Claudia Jimenez, ’10. This chic pattern can be found in shorts, shirts, capris and dresses, so girls can definitely wear it throughout the summer. —Brittany Hardy, North ‘10
… at Gilbert
As the dry heat approaches creeps up and the sticky sweat rolls down into every orifice, there is a cute and airy option for girls: a swing dress. They’re cheap, cute and reliable on those scorching days of summer when you don’t feel like searching for a complicated outfit. “I love this dress because it’s such a unique and comfortable twist on summer style,” says Jenna Bresadola, ’10. “It has a certain lift, a breeziness to it, that makes it fun, and the colors go with so many accessories.” —Cailtin Cole, Gilbert ‘10
SKY’S
THE LIMIT Elliott Lucca Bari Large Shopper in Saffron $298
Summer
bags
Choices for every budget
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the sak Juniper Large Tote in Cayenne $199
… at Arcadia
With the blazing sun and sizzling summer heat upon us, Arcadia’s love for sunshine has become public. Sporting Ray Bans Wayfarers has become an essential must for this summer season. “Ray Bans are both trendy and classic” says Carter Graves, ’10, whose love for the classy black Wayfareres has added more pizzazz to the laid-back Cali style that most Titans love to follow. —Vivian Padilla, Arcadia ‘10
Shower chic
Goodbye, Grandma’s florals and Gilligan’s Island nautical themes. Local company Backstage Pass has introduced a line of shower curtains that are actually cool. Some are Swarovski crystalstudded and channel Ed Hardy, while others rock a Far East vibe; most seek to inspire and all will help you get your day started right. In the works: a line of matching bath towels. Prices vary depending on design and detail. Check them out at BackstagePassShowerCurtains.com. azTeenmagazine.com
STEAL
sakroots Eco Harmony Backpack in Marrakesh Stripe $79
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THE LIFE OF STYLE.™
STYLE PANEL
Don’t let the heat disturb your summer plans. Prepare for the sun’s charm with these essentials from Chandler Fashion Center.
When relaxing by the pool, make sure to look your absolute best with Bare Escentuals sun proof eyewear. The SPF keeps those peepers protected and captivating without smudging.
What better way is there to fill a summer day than shopping? Shop in style with this chic ensemble from Windsor.
Show off your new pedicure with the Egyptian gladiator jeweled cork wedge from Steve Madden. Fancy footwear has a whole new meaning this summer!
Get that summer glow without harming your skin. Origins Great Pretender shimmery self tanner makes the whitest skin look believably bronzed.
Kick back in these charming Cali flat tennis shoes from Skechers. The bold colors and print allow these sneaks to take center stage this season.
“DON’T FORGET THE
ACCESSORIES, THIS SUMMER MORE IS MORE!” STEPHANIE WHITLOW WESTCOR STYLE PANEL
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Photo: Justine Craft
It’s getting hot in here
1.
Walk through the halls of any Valley high school, go to a track meet or a basketball game, attend a spring musical or a chess tournament or a pep rally or an assembly, and you’ll see them. They are coaches and administrators and faculty and staff, parents, unique classes and clubs, student-athletes, StuGo officers, academic powerhouses, musicians and actors, community volunteers. They are the teachers who students will talk about at their 20th reunion and the students whose peers want to emulate them, and now they are the azTeen 2009 Hot 100. Selected from more than 200 nominations, our winners represent 44 schools and are shining examples of people getting it right.
Wayne Unger, Mountain Pointe senior When we introduced the Hot 100 last year, we were pretty adamant that making the list would be a one-time thing. So when Wayne, then a junior and president of the Mountain Pointe student body, was named a Hot 100, we figured that would be the end of it. We were wrong. Wayne went on to become MP’s student-body president for a second year, continues to be an active community volunteer and was our emcee for the azValenTeens Bash in February. And when we sent out the call for Hot 100 ’09 nominations and Wayne’s name came up over and over again from teachers, administrators and his fellow students, we couldn’t let a silly rule keep him from assuming his rightful place on the ’09 roster. Centered, ambitious and politically savvy, Wayne became our only repeat winner and continues to be someone we’ll be keeping our eye on. We expect big things from him as he pursues a business degree at ASU. azTeenmagazine.com
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Photo: Justine Craft
2.
Mr. Glenn Hart, Boulder Creek band teacher Mr. Hart has garnered respect and awards for the BC band during the two years he’s been at its helm, while endearing himself to his students and colleagues along the way. He dances, plays the tuba and is a foster parent, exemplifying to four fellow BC teachers “a shining example of Arizona’s best.”
3. Jae Cheon,
Desert Mountain senior
Described as analytical and intelligent, Jae is an International Baccalaureate student with dreams of becoming a neurosurgeon. Bilingual and a National Merit Finalist, Jae is also an accomplished public speaker, a flautist who performs with the Phoenix Youth Symphony and a hospital volunteer.
ten
The Ice Cold Souljas, South Mountain Two years ago, Camelback’s former step team coaches launched a club at South Mountain. The result: The Ice Cold Souljas, a hard-working squad that practices its craft three days a week and performs at step shows, Suns and Roadrunners games and other community events. “It is something that sets our school apart,” says one student. “It is a big part of our identity.”
4. Ms. Joann Rupnicki,
Queen Creek security guard
In the words of the QC student who nominated her, Ms. Rupnicki “is always there when we have a problem and need someone to talk to. She keeps us safe and listens to our problems, even though she doesn’t have to. She makes you feel like you can trust her if you ever have a problem, and she is just a great role model and friend to all of us.”
5. Dylan Oglesby, Horizon sophomore
6. Ms. Anna Horton and the Highland Sun
We here at azTeen appreciate more than most the difficulty in putting out a quality journalism Photo: Katie Egan, Hamilton ‘09
7. Alex Koziak,
Xavier sophomore
Well-known around the Horizon campus, Dylan was cited for his humor and positive attitude. He is “one of the school’s funniest, most charismatic and interesting teenagers I have met,” according to one nominator. He has had a great impact on Horizon and “I am a better person by knowing him.”
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product with a staff comprised entirely of teenagers … no offense. So when we hear about an advisor who has managed to generate buzz around campus as well as a genuine affection for the school paper, we take notice. That’s what Highland students say Ms. Horton, an English teacher, has managed to do in her brief tenure so far with the Sun. So congratulations to her, the students who work for her and the entire student body at Highland. Hopefully, they know a good thing when they read it.
A cheerleader and a leader off the field, Alex works “harder than anyone” to balance her busy schedule and keep her grades up. Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. “She has a great sense of humor and is liked by various people because of her kindness,” says a friend. “She is determined and motivated in what she does and will practice over and over again to get something right.”
8.
Matti Tygret, Williams Field junior An all-around standout, Matti was nominated by a couple of people within her
Zak Hambsch, Hamilton senior Known by everyone at Hamilton and well-respected amongst his classmates, Zak is a scholar-athlete who balanced his role as quarterback for the state champion Huskies and a spot on the varsity basketball team with an AP class-laden academic schedule. Zak’s a true “golden boy” who manages to represent what’s best about high school student-athletes. summer 2009
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school community. What sets her apart, they say, is her ability to maintain an intensely competitive academic schedule along with a role on the volleyball team and her position of StuGo president while still making time for her friends.
9.
Mr. Don Dumais, Desert Vista sociology and psychology teacher Popular with current and former students, Mr. Dumais manages to have a good story for everything. Definitions and theories? Bo-ring! Mr. Dumais interjects amusing anecdotes into his lectures instead, making his classes interesting and perennially sought-out.
11.
Mrs. Pam Miller, Saguaro English and Humanities teacher You know the kind of teacher you instantly fear but quickly come to respect and whose high expectations of you somehow compel you to expect more from yourself? At Saguaro, that’s Mrs. Miller. Says one graduating senior: “Although she is intimidating to some, most of Mrs. Miller’s current and former students agree that she is the teacher from whom they learned the most. An extremely well-educated woman, Mr. Miller knows that challenging her students early on will definitely benefit them
13.
Lacey Beierle, Sunrise Mountain junior
Mr. Nuttall has taken the world of TV and film technology to a new level, compelling his students to see a familiar medium in a whole new way. “After just a week in his class, students are able to see television not only as a collection of moving pictures on a screen but as something that holds great influence on our day-to-day lives,” says one student. “Mr. Nuttall helps his students understand the importance and significance of video production by showing us how it affects us personally.”
15. Albert Alvarez, Washington senior
A standout student-athlete, Albert is a two-time state champion in the 103-pound weight class. He works hard to maintain a B average and, says one administrator, “is a young man of very high character and is well-respected by the student body as well as the entire faculty and staff of WHS.”
Photo: Nikki Wilder
Very active in DECA with her partner, Tiffany Payne, Lacey also exemplifies the attitude that teachers and administrators like to see. Captain of the JV soccer team, Lacey had never played the sport before last year but wanted to give it a try; to be good would be awesome but being a part of the team was what really mattered to Lacey. She is also on the track team and has been selected to be a Peer Counselor in ’09-’10. “She is a remarkable young lady,” says one administrator. “Just fantastic.”
14.
Mr. David Nuttall, Higley Careers and Tech teacher
seventeen Brenda Cedillo, Tempe sophomore
Not everyone in Brenda’s family made the right choices; she’s got siblings in jail and who are high-school dropouts. Brenda herself is a teenage mother. But she has chosen to be a role model to her son and family members by being a part of a new program at Tempe called Beyond the Limits. In the program, students who don’t fit the traditional International Baccalaureate profile — perhaps they are first-generation college, or socioeconomically challenged— are tutored and nurtured in an IB setting. “Brenda has proven that hard work and a small push can lead a child to remarkable feats,” says one Tempe administrator. “Brenda is currently taking honors English and honors geometry and plans to take IB English, Math and Spanish next year. She has a 4.0 GPA, which she is maintaining while mothering a 1-year-old and working more than 20 hours per week. Brenda believes she can do anything, and she has made a believer out of me.”
18.
Mr. Ian Moses, Mountain Pointe athletic director Mr. Moses is described as not only the best-dressed man on the MP campus, but also as funny, smart and, says one of those who nominated him, someone who “makes you feel good about yourself even when you’re getting in trouble… How cool is that?” He is a hands-on AD, working alongside the spirit crew and maintaining a great rapport with students while giving respect to them and earning it back in spades.
19.
Ms. Jen Maccoll, Chaparral biology teacher and coach If “Most Involved” awards were given to faculty members, Ms. Maccoll would be a frontrunner at Chaparral. In addition to being a top-notch bio teacher, Ms. Maccoll sponsors several clubs on campus, including the Panacea service club, A.P.E. (Animals, People, Earth), the Kung Fu Movie Club and the Gay-Straight Alliance. She also coached the undefeated girls soccer team. “She is a great motivator,” says one student. “She is not only an inspirational teacher, but person.”
16.
20. Danny Wilson, Brophy junior
Mr. Wes Hawkins’s freshman Rock Band class, Tesseract School Who needs the video-game version of Rock Band when they can have the real thing? Ninth graders at Tesseract’s new Upper School campus in PV study the music of everyone from the Beatles to Audioslave. Mr. Hawkins helps his students incorporate all of their ideas into an energetic and eclectic mix of songs.
Danny Wilson, who is co-captain of Brophy’s Mock Trial and intensely interested in the subject of climate change, has ambitious goals: to attend Brown and one day become Secretary of State. In the meantime, says a fellow student, he “has a mission — to better society and
azTeenmagazine.com
Photo: Sheena Starks
in the future.” Her junior honors students write a 60-page paper in the spring, complaining throughout the process but years later understanding how much it prepared them for the challenges of college. “Her lectures are always interesting and never boring, and she knows how to engage students, even at the end of the day.”
the environment. As a student who strives to learn more than what is written on the board, Danny’s mind is always at work, as he looks at a picture larger than many eyes may see.”
21. Ms. Nicole Dixon,
Primavera health/PE teacher
Teaching PE in the gym is hard enough, but over the internet? Even with this complication, students say that Ms. Dixon has found a way to make the class interesting, fun and useful. By making class info relevant to what they deal with in everyday life, she has inspired many of them to care about their physical and emotional health.
22. Mrs. Susan Campbell, North Spanish teacher
So concerned is Senora Campbell with her students’ success that she devotes many of her Saturday mornings to helping them prepare for their senior IB oral exams. Her enthusiasm for Hispanic culture is infectious, and her enthusiastic lessons stick with her students long after they leave her classroom. Ask them about Sra. Campbell’s class and they’ll have a quick response: Que padre! (“How cool!”) summer 2009
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29.
26. Benjamin Sanchez, Goldwater senior
When Student body president, National Hispanic Scholar and Flinn hopeful Benjamin Sanchez graduates and moves on to ASU, says one Goldwater administrator, he will leave an impressive legacy at BGHS and the Deer Valley district. “He is a student to watch now and in the future, with an entrepreneurial spirit and great leadership skills. He has taken student government to a new level and created new clubs and activities for the school. BGHS is proud of Benjamin Sanchez.”
27.
Photo: Jennifer Na, Xavier ‘11
Mr. Al Elliott, Fountain Hills volunteer
24.
Mrs. Anne-Marie Woolsey, Arcadia principal Plenty of principals are respected. Some are loved by their students. But few garner the universal praise bestowed upon Mrs. Woolsey by her Arcadia flock. When talk turns to her, students chime in with “She’s so nice!” or “She’s so cute!” or “I love her!” Says one: “Mrs. Woolsey not only runs Arcadia as smooth as butter, she does the whole thing with a huge smile on her face. Somehow she makes it to every game, event and show Arcadia has to offer, and she isn’t bothered when she has to rough it with the players on the bus or in the gym or locker room.” All hail Mrs. Woolsey!
23. Revae Krueger,
Raymond S. Kellis senior
A member of the Principal’s Student Cabinet and Speech & Debate, cross country, track and soccer teams, Revae Krueger is a wellrounded and much-appreciated member of RSK’s student body. Says one administrator: “Revae is one of those special students that you only meet once in your life. Not only is she smart, beautiful and talented, she continues to impress me and Kellis staff with her ingenuity and integrity. She is a student I trust, and I rely on her to help me in many ways. She consistently rises above any expectations and gives of herself without hesitation or compensation. Revae rocks!”
25. Mrs. Von Perot, Horizon English teacher
One student who nominated Mrs. Perot describes her as “quite possibly the greatest teacher, and
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pal, a student could ever hope to have.” What has Mrs. Perot, who teaches Junior AP English, done to earn such adoration? She greets her students every morning with a boisterous “hello!” and proceeds to drill them on mnemonic devices and terms they will need to know on their exam, leaving nothing uncovered. But it’s not just what she teaches but how she does it that makes Mrs. Perot special. “If I had to decide a single teacher who not only prepared me to take an AP exam but prepared me for life ahead, I would pick Mrs. Perot without a doubt. Her system of teaching is ingenious … (and she) gives each student that little boost of energy or hope they are needing to receive on those lackadaisical Monday mornings.”
Even though he’s a paraprofessional at Fountain Hills Middle School, Mr. Elliott is a fixture on the FHHS campus. A former youth pastor and recreational coordinator, he brings extensive life skills to his role as supporter of the Falcons student body. “Whenever we need an extra supervisor, chaperone or assistance at FHHS events, Mr. Elliott is willing and able,” says the FHHS faculty member who nominated him. “He does everything he can, above and beyond the call of duty, to help our students become good citizens, athletes and students.”
28. Greta Bartnick, Desert Ridge senior
Despite facing some personal challenges, Greta Bartnick has
clubs
Mr. Tim Barmettler, Highland English teacher and coach Fortunately for his students, Mr. Barmettler isn’t giving up his spot in the classroom. His athletes, however, aren’t as lucky. This highly successful soccer coach of the two-time state champions (’07 and ’09) is retiring from coaching. But his motto–
“If the grass looks greener on the other side, start working on your own lawn” –will certainly continue to guide his teaching in the classroom. “He is a man of his word who goes above and beyond to be ahead of the game,” says one student. “His demeanor demands respect from all his players and students, who really look up to him.”
excelled at DRHS since transferring there at the beginning of the year. Her body of work for her four years of high school is impressive: basketball, volleyball, softball, drama, choir and writing awards top her resume. The DRHS staff member who nominated Greta says that Greta is a hard worker who has set goals for her future and is
Few on-campus organizations spark such passion as those that strive to raise awareness and money for the relief effort in Uganda and Sudan, where political strife and genocide have left thousands of children orphaned and displaced. Rallying your fellow students to care about their own back yards is hard enough, but getting them to care about such far-flung tragedies can be a daunting task. Kudos, then, to these Hot 100s.
thirty Arcadia’s STAND (Students Taking Action Now: Darfur) Club has
raised more than $20,000 so far through events such as Dance for Darfur and the Lemon-Aid STAND. There is also a candlelight vigil and fast to raise awareness and the very active club sponsors multiple displaced families during the holidays. thirty-one Brophy’s Tito Texidor is hoping the STAND Club he launched will have the same success as Arcadia’s club. The busy and community-minded senior also has done a project for Sierra Leon. thirty-two Corona del Sol’s Audrey Hirschl is a StuGo member, student journalist and choir member. She is also the president of Invisible Children, Corona’s chapter of the Ugandan-relief organization, for which she organizes book drives, benefit concerts and fundraisers. thirty-three Desert Mountain’s Invisible Children Club has raised more than $31,000 for Gulu High School in Uganda and for the past two years has won the Invisible Children Schools for Schools competition.
azTeenmagazine.com
determined to see them through. Greta, she says, is “extraordinary.”
the Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
Saint Mary’s junior
Dillon Jensen, Queen Creek senior
34. Sarah McShane,
She has top grades and a spot on the soccer team, is StuGo president and a part of Catholic Formation. The very busy Sarah McShane also mentors other students and is seen as a leader and campus organizer. “Sarah not only delegates as a good leader should, but she is always front and center, fulfilling all duties that need to be filled by the various activities student council supports,” says one administrator. “She comes to school early and stays late, she comes in on weekends and she even works in the summer… She fosters good relationships with students, teachers and administrators … and goes out of her way to encourage others.”
35. Taylor Ray, Chaparral student and spirit leader
According to his classmates, students don’t get much more school-spirited than Taylor Ray. A sort of unofficial campus mascot, Taylor “comes to every football game and is constantly on the morning announcements,” says a fellow student. “He always reminds everyone to cheer for our team, shouting and dancing along the sidelines to get people to make noise. On the announcements he reminds everyone to have good sportsmanship and play fair and have fun, no matter what.” Taylor’s smiling face is known to everyone on the Chaparral campus, where he is friends with everyone, regardless of clique. “Everyone knows and loves Taylor.”
36. Ms. Courtney Leitz,
Corona del Sol library assistant at Sunset Library
In her yearlong tenure, Ms. Leitz has breathed new life into the library, creating video-game nights, lock-ins, murder-mystery parties and theme nights to draw teens in for safe evenings that are actually fun. Ms. Leitz also meets with the Teen Advisory Group to discuss volunteer opportunities and plan future events. “Not only does she hold all these activities,” says one student, “she also seems to befriend everyone who shows up.”
37. Horizon’s 56
th
Street Comedy Club With standouts like seniors Bo Jacober and Maya Evans, this improv comedy troupe puts on four sold-out shows each year. This year the team joined the National Comedy Theatre and will compete against other schools for a championship and a chance to do a show with professionals. The team gives back each year by donating to a charity; last year, they raised more than $600 in one night for
inspires fierce loyalty. “He wants everyone to succeed and will do everything in his power to make sure his task is fulfilled.”
40.
A member of the Arizona High School Rodeo Association since his freshman year, Dillon finished fourth in the state in steer wrestling and represented Arizona in the National High School Finals Rodeo in New Mexico. He was the NHSRA’s youth ambassador to the National Rifle Association and, says a fellow student, “works hard and deserves to be recognized.”
39.
Mr. Trent Otis, Sunnyslope science teacher and coach Described as an “extremely funny guy,” Mr. Otis teaches freshman Thinking Science and coaches tennis and softball. “I haven’t enjoyed a single science class since I was in fourth grade,” says one student. “None of my teachers that taught the subject ever caught my full attention, until now. The way Mr. Otis teaches makes me want more.” Mr. Otis seems to have figured out the secret to reaching students — even freshmen! — and
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40.
Aashley Richter, Paradise Valley junior Pretty is one thing, but being pretty and smart and not afraid to be who she is is what makes Aashley Richter a Hot 100. A member of the school’s dance team who is always impeccably put-together, Aashley makes quite an impression. “Aashley personifies beauty and breaks the ‘pretty girl’ stereotype that says that all pretty girls are mean, plastic and less than bright,” says the student who nominated her.
41.
Alex Smyth, Fountain Hills senior Competitive, driven and determined describe Alex Smyth and explain his high school resume and success as a thrower on the track team and in state and national meets. A top student academically, athletically and in architectural drafting competitions, Alex is described by one teacher as prepared, organized, punctual and efficient. “Alex is one of the finest young men and students I have had in 40 years of classroom teaching,” he says.
42. Annica Benning, Scottsdale Prep freshman
Annica Benning is getting an early start on setting the world on fire. One of only two freshman Hot 100 winners this year, Annica has been nominated for the 2009 Arizona Governor’s Art Award for Arizona: Nations and Art, a book that she conceived, wrote and photographed entirely on her own, about the history of Native American cultures in the state and their status today. Producing the book wasn’t the end of Annica’s commitment; her next goal is to get it distributed to all of the state’s fourth graders to be used in their study of Native American history. After that, who knows what’s next on Annica’s agenda? Not us, but we’re looking forward to finding out.
43. Mr. Andrew
Luckenbill, Greenway history teacher, coach and journalism advisor
Lex can tell you: Mr. Luckenbill is a great guy. Of course, Lex is Mr. Luckenbill’s dog, and he has to say that. But the praise coming from Greenway students is genuine. “This man has stayed at school until 11 at night just to help us finish our school newspaper.” Mr. Luckenbill, who coaches football and wrestling
What’s the deal with social studies teachers? They and English teachers led the faculty nominations we received from students; as a group, they must be doing something very right. 44.
Millennium’s Mr. Jason Beck has been at the school for seven years, during which time he has, says the colleague who nominated him, “blazed a path of dedication and pride as a Tiger.” He coaches soccer and tennis and leads his department as chair. The proud Husker also contributes his time to mentoring fellow teachers and is known on campus for his hard work. 45. Mt. Pointe’s Mrs. Natasha Alston is the senior class co-sponsor, staff-development coordinator and Black Student Union sponsor. Those who nominated her say she is a tireless promoter of diversity and that her innovative methods and passion have “made all of us really think about why what we say about other people really does matter.” 46. Horizon’s Mr. Bill Hazen is an AP history teacher who came out of retirement to prepare yet another generation of students for the AP exam. The “Hazenator” is legendary amongst current and former students and has inspired Facebook groups and YouTube videos; his lectures are colorful and theatrical, delivered as though he were recounting stories from his own life. “He’s just The Hazenator,” says one student. “He’s not like anyone else I’ve ever known.” 47. Coronado’s Mrs. Courtney Kemp is known as a friend as well as a teacher to her government and AP government students. “From writing letters of recommendation and giving helpful advice to giving her sweatshirt to someone if they are cold, Mrs. Kemp always delivers with a smile on her face,” says one student. “She always encourages students and manages to bring out the best in others.” 48. Gilbert history teacher Mr. Russ Tribby has a deep love for his subject matter and an ability to relate to his students. A huge Jerry Rice fan, Mr. Tribby is the son of civil rights’ activists who brings a passion for history to the classroom and tries Russ Tribby his best to pass it on to his students. “He has a great rapport with his students,” says a colleague. “He’s got a positive outlook and is just someone you like being around.” 49. Desert Vista’s Mr. Matt Pryor “honestly made me interested in government and want to get involved,” says one of his students.” The honors AZ/US government teacher is known for trying to stir up his students to make them see why government matters. And as is the true sign of a great teacher, Mr. Pryor’s students are actually sad when his semester-long class is over. 50. Queen Creek’s Mrs. Carolyn Vail teaches government and history and is, says one student, “helpful and a great teacher,” answering students’ questions about college and making them feel secure about getting out into the real world. “She reminds us not to let our grades fall and to try our best, and she has so much faith in her classes that you feel like it is not so bad out there.” azTeenmagazine.com
Photo: Caitlin Cole
Bill Hazen
Photo: Sheena Starks
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Corona del Sol senior
Sure, he’s 6-foot-6 and 250 pounds, but that’s not the only reason that Michael Stahl stands out on the Corona campus. An impressive track athlete and basketball player, Michael is described as an “all-around good guy” who is known for choosing to do the right thing when faced with tough decisions. “A true goofball at heart, he stands for anyone in need and silently leads through his actions,” says a fellow student.
53.
Camille Ivery, Highland senior President of Anytown, an AntiDefamation League peer trainer and
54. Mr. Bruce Kipper,
Mountain Pointe principal
“In his first year as principal,” says one senior, Mr. Kipper “has turned Mountain Pointe into an even better school by committing nothing less than excellence.” Well-liked by faculty, staff and students, Mr. Kipper is a popular and respected figure on campus who “seeks to bring out the best in everyone at Mountain Pointe.”
55. Eric Kline, Horizon senior
The staff member who nominated Eric Kline lauds his good grades and strong work ethic. “You couldn’t meet a nicer person,” she says of Eric, who wants to be a police officer one day. “He works in our office without ever complaining, volunteers in the community and still finds time to dirt bike with friends.”
56.
Mr. Cory Losenicky, Greenway English teacher and theater director Known for his open mind and flexibility, Mr. Losenicky is “more than just another educator,” says one student. “He treats every student with respect and lets the voices of teenagers be heard.” When staging a production, he puts his students’ ideas front and center while ensuring that everything is done safely. “He’s a good listener, and without his understanding personality, the theater department of Greenway wouldn’t be what it is today.”
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Mr. Chris Patters, Gilbert psychology teacher
At Gilbert, one of the most popular electives is psychology, and students say a big part of the reason is Mr. Patters. No one wants to miss one of his entertaining lectures, and he “guides his classes in a way so that every student can understand the topic,” says one student. “If someone doesn’t understand, he works with them until they have complete comprehension of it. Students can tell how dedicated he is to what he does.”
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57. Brittany Griffith, Basha senior
Brittany Griffith maintains a 3.9 GPA, but where she really stands out is on stage; she eats, sleeps and breathes theater and improv. As captain of Basha’s improv comedy team, Brittany is responsible for directing her teammates in exercises to stretch their creative muscles and imbuing confidence. “Brittany is so clever and enthusiastic,” says the person who nominated her. “She is passing the torch of improv comedy — confidence, positivity and teamwork — that will last for years and years thanks to her dedication and commitment.”
58. Devan Manning, Desert Ridge senior
With a 4.4 GPA and a top ranking in the senior class, Devan Manning is
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Matt Celaya, Desert Ridge senior
A huge part of DRHS’s Extra Mile service club for the past two years, Matt Celaya has played a big role in keeping the Wednesday night food box program at Paz de Cristo shelter in Mesa running. He and a small group of volunteers have served more than 30,000 people with this program. To top it off, he was recently accepted at MIT. “The biggest thing about Matt that makes him unique is that he is individually motivated to achieve good things,” says one of his teachers. “He really inspires the other students to go out and do community service and make a positive difference.” a serious student. That attitude spills over into her role with DRHS’s orchestra, where she began as a violinist and Concert Master but switched to viola to fill a need. “She has been an invaluable player because of her skill, her commitment and her high level of maturity,” says one teacher. “Devan quietly makes important sacrifices and contributions. She does not seek the spotlight, but she deserves it. The world needs more people like Devan.”
59. Alex Papazian, Arcadia junior
Excelling in the classroom and at the barre, Alex manages to balance her demanding academic schedule with that required of her as a top-level ballerina. Usually very quiet, it is on stage that she truly shines. “How she is able to wake up every morning, sometimes at 4 a.m., go to school, complete homework and dance for hours is a mystery to me,” says a fellow student. “She is pretty inspiring.”
60. Mr. Ray
Johnston, Chaparral security guard
Chaparral students may not know what to expect from each school day, but one thing is certain: Ray will be waiting to help them get their day started off right.
azTeenmagazine.com
“Everybody knows Ray because Ray knows everybody at Chaparral,” says one student. “Every morning he stands by the parking lot and shakes the hand of every student who walks by. Even when you can’t count on the weather being the best, Ray is there waiting with a smile to welcome you to the school. I have seen him standing out in the rain with a poncho and an umbrella in the same spot, brightening kids’ days.”
61. Bruce Merrill,
Cactus Shadows sophomore
With a magnetic personality and quiet, commanding presence, Bruce Merrill is known as one of those people who is simply liked by everyone. An actor and writer, Bruce is quick with a hug and always has a smile on his face. “Anyone who has met him will sing his praises,” says one student. “People are drawn to him, and when he speaks, no matter how quietly, he is heard.”
62.
Mr. John Hay, Peoria business teacher Known for his dedication to all of his students and for helping prepare those who compete in DECA, Mr. Hay is “a kind person … who cares deeply about his students’ futures.” Mr. Hay “can lift your spirits in seconds and make you have a good laugh. He is everything a teacher should be: caring, intelligent, resourceful and funny.”
Photo: Ashley McCulley, Millennium ‘11
51. Michael Stahl,
Photo: Jennifer Na, Xavier ‘11
and this year took over journalism instruction and the role of newspaper advisor, makes food runs, brings Lex in to keep the staff company and keeps personality clashes from interfering with their ability to get things done. “After our advisor of around 30 years left our award-winning staff, Lukenbill said ‘I will not be the death of the Demon Dispatch!’”
clay club officer, Camille is known as someone who will “go out of her way to help others, always available to make someone smile.” The future Sun Devil was nominated by a fellow student who says Camille is “intelligent, hard-working, kind, funny and outrageously sassy. I suggest her because she is an example of what we all should aspire to be.”
Mountain Pointe English teacher and coach
Personable and outgoing, Mr. Danuser received high praise from students and colleagues. “Mr. D carries a grace and elegance with him and constantly thinks of the rights and feelings of others before his own,” says one administrator. “A smile is ever-present and a kind word is quick from his lips when greeting students and colleagues.”
65. Mrs. Nonda
Brown, Queen Creek English and physiology teacher
Known for being kind and respectful, Mrs. Brown was also hailed by students for her passion for literature and creative assignments. “She is very kind and respectful,” says one student. “She encourages her students to open their minds and eyes so they can better understand themselves and the world around them.”
66. Danica Koetstner,
Shadow Mountain senior
Nominated by both fellow students and an administrator, Danica Koetstner is involved in the performing arts and serves on StuGo. “She’s someone who I really admire,” says one classmate. “I think a lot of people look up to her.” Echoes an administrator: “She is an absolute asset to Shadow Mountain.”
67.
Brandon Romero, North junior Brandon Romero takes his role as junior class president seriously, making an effort to get to know every student he can at North. Balancing track with a role in the spring musical and a challenging IB program in the classroom, Brandon nonetheless goes out of his way to encourage those around
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him. One student says that when it comes to interacting with his classmates, Brandon “has never neglected to bring a little sunshine to our day.”
69. Sister Yolanda Mendoza, Notre Dame Nun on Campus
Any nun who allows students to refer to her as “Yo Sister” definitely shatters the stereotype of nuns as austere, corporal punishment-happy sticks in the mud. Sister Yolanda is a “cornerstone” of Notre Dame, says one student. “Everyone is familiar with this genial woman who is frightening when your service hours are late but such a darling if you are just stopping by to chat. She knows when to be serious but isn’t afraid to have fun. I can’t imagine Notre Dame without our Yo Sister.”
71. Daniella Serrano, Fountain Hills senior
A senior with a 4.0 GPA, Daniella is also an all-region and all-state volleyball player, all-state soccer player and member of the state champion tennis team. “She also works with youth club volleyball and soccer and is just an all-around great student, athlete and young lady,” says one FHHS teacher. “She represents the best of Fountain Hills High School.”
72.
Julie Hernandez, Mountain Pointe senior A National Hispanic Merit Scholar headed to ASU in the fall, Julie is also editor-in-chief of MPHS’s yearbook, where she directs a staff of 70 and manages a budget of $125,000. “The hard work that she puts into everything she does is just admirable,” says a fellow student. “Her bubbly personality is something else too, as happiness is contagious. It is impossible to not like Julie.”
73. Mr. Johnny Frias,
Photo: Taylor Turkeltaub, Chaparral ‘11
63. Mr. Paul Danuser,
Sunnyslope English teacher
Mr. Frias is a teacher who doesn’t phone it in. His students keep journals, and visitors to his classroom shouldn’t expect to get off without answering a question such as “Where do you feel the happiest, and why?” The genuine joy he takes in teaching is apparent to his students. “There are so many things he has gotten me to want to try to do,” says one. “He inspires me to try.”
74. Jake Goddard, Queen Creek senior
Well-rounded and active, Jake Goddard is a clear choice for Hot 100. Student-body president, solid student, state-champion wrestler, football player and active in community service, Jake “is the kind of kid you want your daughter to date and your son to hang out with,” says one of those who nominated him.
75.
Notre Dame clubs: Senior Legacy and SADD The formation of Senior Legacy was prompted by a speech given by theology teacher Mrs. Lachwayer to this year’s seniors challenging them to find a way to make their senior year memorable and meaningful. Inspired by the talk, a group of senior boys, including Derek Schurbon, opted to build on their own experiences volunteering in Mexico and founded the Senior Legacy Club. Sixty percent of the Class of ’09 participated, and in six trips were able to build two homes and hold a food distribution for 300 families. On their final trip, the group invited a handful of juniors in the hopes that the tradition will carry on. Another campus standout is the ND chapter of Students Against Destructive Decisions, which placed second in the nation in the Act Out Loud contest to promote safe driving. Members were also invited to take place in the Allstate Safe Driving Challenge and to present a project at the national SADD conference. Kudos to both clubs for inspiring their classmates and making a real difference in the lives of others.
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Mr. Conrad Davis, Chaparral English teacher
More than one student nominated Mr. Davis as a Hot 100, but only one called him “probably the oldest person on campus.” There is even a Facebook group called “Conrad Davis: The Oldest Main Alive,” but we imagine that Mr. Davis takes the ribbing in stride. After all, this is the man whose “generosity and compassion” are praised by students, as are his random anecdotes and status as a “grammar freak.” “Just like our sisters and brothers and probably grandparents before us,” says one, “we’re lucky to have Mr. Davis as a teacher.”
76. Mrs. Cindy Shaw,
Millennium career specialist
When graduation comes, some seniors are ready to jump into “real life” with both feet; others need help to reach that point. Enter Mrs. Shaw, whose steady encouragement ensures that students know all of their options and what they need to do to reach their goals. “She helps numerous students ease those after-high-school jitters by helping them … be fully informed,” says a colleague. Adds a student: “Mrs. Shaw never gets frustrated or tired of talking to us or trying to help us decide what is best for our lives.”
Mrs. Holly Bonessi, Millennium English and journalism teacher We at azTeen didn’t need to be convinced of Mrs. Bonessi’s fabulousness, as she was our contact when Millennium was our Prom Issue’s featured school. Energetic, enthusiastic and conscientious, Mrs. Bonessi founded the school’s newspaper and has a rep amongst her students as a creative teacher with great classroom ideas. “How many teachers let you play with Play-Doh in ninth grade?” asks one. “She is an out-of-the-box thinker who truly cares for the success of all her students. She is accessible to both students and teachers, inspiring everyone to be better at what they do because she shows us we are capable of reaching higher, achieving more and believing the impossible.” azTeenmagazine.com
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seventy-seven
Samuel Park, Mesquite junior
A member of the Academic Decathlon with an outstanding GPA, Samuel Park sits as principal violinist of the Phoenix Youth Symphony. He won its Concerto Competition and soloed with the Phoenix Symphony, and played as Assistant Concertmaster of the all-state orchestra.
78. Ileanna Martinez, North junior
An avid dancer and horseback rider, Ileanna volunteers at Phoenix Children’s Hospital and the Humane Society while taking honors classes. One classmate calls her a “hardworking and dedicated student and volunteer who is worth knowing. She loves to spend her time helping others.”
79. Mrs. Katherine
Kouns, Horizon choir director With hundreds of students covering all four grades, Mrs. Kouns reaches a big part of the Horizon student body every day. But that doesn’t stop her from making everyone feel like they’re part of one big family, say her students. “She is extraordinary,” says one. “Her responsibilities are great, and so much depends on her,” including an annual weeklong “choir tour” for selected students. “The relationship she has created amongst her students is indescribable.”
in the Valley. Of a recent StuGo conference, one chaperone says that “Blaze made those two days enjoyable for the other nine QC students simply by being himself and wanting to have fun.”
82. Dr. Susan Rockwell, St. Mary’s English teacher
Known affectionately as “Dr. Roc” by St. Mary’s students, Dr. Susan Rockwell “goes above and beyond in every aspect of her job,” says one administrator. “Having spent many years in administration and several as a college professor, Dr. Roc transitioned into the classroom five years ago. She considers herself a storyteller and uses stories to teach, a technique that has earned her respect from her colleagues and appreciation from her students. “She is exceptional in every aspect of her career and just a wonderful person,” says a colleague.
83. Patrick Kishi,
Shadow Mountain senior
Patrick is an excellent student, with a GPA above 4.0, and a big role on Shadow Mountain’s swim team; he swims breaststroke. But the real reason he is a true Hot 100, says the fellow student who nominated him, is that “he’s a really great guy.” And we can never have too many of those.
84.
80. Kelsey Williamson,
Cody Glazner, Mesquite junior
Desert Vista senior
A hardworking senior who’s always willing to lend a helping hand, Kelsey excels in school and work, as well as in DV’s Health Occupation Students of America club. “Nobody could ever say anything bad about her,” says one student. “She’s the nicest girl ever.”
Besides being “exceptionally hot” physically, according to one fellow student, Cody is also known on campus for being a truly nice guy. He studies firefighting at EVIT, something else that has garnered him admiration on campus. “I don’t know anyone who doesn’t like Cody,” says a student. “I respect how hard he works. I think he’s going to do really well in life.
81. Blaze Baggs, Queen Creek junior
Blaze, says one of his teachers, “defies description.” Vice president of the junior class, a straight-A student and member of the tennis team, Blaze is known for being punctual, conscientious and upbeat. He attends every StuGo fundraiser and works hard to make QCHS’s student council one of the best
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85.
Mr. Dan Arvidson, Mrs. Karen Gwynn and Mrs. Fran Hasslacher, Boulder Creek parents Parents are often the unsung heroes of any high school campus, walking a fine line between advocate for
their child and being a too-involved, hovering helicopter parent. At Boulder Creek, three parents in particular stand out. Dan Arvidson, Karen Gwynn and Fran Hasslacher are spearheading an event to keep students off the street and safe on graduation night. “These same parents have continued from kindergarten through 12th grade to do everything to help schools, from sweeping sidewalks of rocks for young bike riders (Mr. Arvidson) to making copies for teachers (Mrs. Gwynn) to serving on the PTA board every year since 1995 (Mrs. Hasslacher),” says one teacher. “They do amazing things they never receive recognition for.”
86.
Valarie Hanna, Pinnacle sophomore Pinnacle is known for its outstanding StuGo, and many members see Valarie as its future. She has been to Nationals once and, predicts a StuGo member who has worked with her, “will eventually be state president.” Adds one teacher: “She is definitely one of our hardest workers. Other kids really look up to her.”
eighty-seven Haley Taylor, Desert Ridge freshman
One of only two freshman winners in the Hot 100, Haley earned her spot thanks to her dedication to and skill in musical performance. First chair French horn in DRHS’s Wind Ensemble, the school’s top performing group, Haley achieved what very few underclassmen ever do. She also plays trumpet so well that she is in jazz band as well. “She has a bright, happy demeanor that always brings up everyone’s spirits,” says one teacher. “She’s the kind of student that all teachers love to have.”
88. Mrs. Chelsa
Sanchez, Millennium special education teacher
A busy member of the Tiger community, Mrs. Sanchez runs two service clubs, oversees the school’s recycling efforts and even helps with the football team’s laundry. “Mrs. Sanchez is the most wonderful hardworking teacher, and we think she deserves to be recognized,” says one of those who nominated her. “She has a heart of gold and never says no to anything that is asked of her. Her students love her.”
azTeenmagazine.com
89.
Andy Johnson, Mountain Pointe junior Open-minded and genial, Andy is junior class vice president and a Best Buddies officer. “Andy is loving, nice and considerate to everyone,” says a fellow student. “He truly cares about everyone and will go the extra mile if you ask him for a favor. He is accepting of you no matter who you are.”
90. Mr. Curt LeBlanc, Queen Creek geometry teacher and coach
There are a lot of good football coaches in the Valley, and all of them have to run two-a-days in the hot summer sun. But Coach LeBlanc was nominated for not just training his players to succeed at football, but life as well. He “focuses on grades, teamwork, character and discipline,” says one student. “He goes above and beyond what the coaching position involves.”
91.
Katie Buck, Desert Ridge senior Katie rallied a Relay for Life team of 22 to raise $1,000 for cancer research, serves as an Anti-Defamation League peer trainer and is on the board of Anytown, DRHS’s diversity club. She is on the Principal’s Advisory Board, in the Clear Choices Club and plays soccer while maintaining a 4.3 GPA. She is described by one teacher as “extremely intelligent, responsible and caring. She is self-motivated and initiates many unselfish activities that could seem daunting or overwhelming to an average person. She is extraordinary, (doing) all these things not because they are required but because she truly wants to make the world a better place.”
92. Zachary Kadera, Coronado senior
Teenagers find a lot of ways to spend their Friday nights, at football games or parties or just hanging out with their friends. But Zachary Kadera devotes Friday nights to volunteering at Hospice of the Valley, something he has been doing since middle school with no excuses and few missed shifts. “He truly does care about making a difference in the lives of people at Hospice,” says a fellow Coronado senior.
93.
Mrs. Julie Stockwell, Greenway teacher, coach and club advisor Greenway’s StuGo advisor and cross country coach, Mrs. Stockwell also teaches accelerated English and Aspire to Teach and advises the Future Educators of America. “She’s
pretty much the superhero, both on and off campus,” says one student of this busy wife and mother. “Many people find her so inspiring.”
on the way to games. “She is a very talented young lady,” says a St. Mary’s coach. “She’s an AllAmerican with a 70-mph fastball. When she pitches, it’s like `What are you thinking? You can’t hit off Dallas.’”
ninety-nine Destinee Quinn, Liberty sophomore
A singer/songwriter/guitarist, Destinee was the winner of last year’s Alice Cooper’s `Proof is in the Pudding’ contest and performs around the Valley with Chicks with Picks. She also played the lead in Liberty’s first-even musical and is a leader in her church. “She is the sweetest and most beautiful girl you will ever meet,” says a friend. Of Destinee’s dedication, she adds: “She deserves to be recognized for her talent and personality. She will do shows and not get home until 10, then somehow get her schoolwork done and wake up and go to school. She is humble and positive and gives positive messages to girls like me.”
ninetyseven Ms. Kelly Goodman,
Queen Creek science teacher
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Mr. Kent Gierke, Gilbert P.E. teacher and coach Coach Gierke is loved by his students and the pole vaulters he coaches because of his even temper and positive support. “Gierke is just a good guy who makes us want to get better instead of making us feel bad because we don’t always get it right,” says one of his athletes. “He is never moody and never negative. Our team this year has a lot of chemistry, and we’re very supportive of each other. A big part of that is because the coaches are always so positive.” Coach Gierke’s colleagues describe him as a truly decent person with a lot of integrity who doesn’t cut corners. “He’s just a stand-up guy, a solid guy,” says one.
95.
Ms. Laurie Slemmer, Mountain Pointe health teacher and StuGo sponsor
96. Dallas Escobedo, St. Mary’s junior
One of the best softball players in the state of Arizona, Dallas committed to ASU this year. She is a lively leader on the team, dancing and singing on the bus
98. Mrs. Shawna Marquis, Higley drama teacher
Part of Mrs. Marquis’s duties involve directing the members of Friday Knights Live, Higley’s monthly comedy sketch show that was the brainchild of talented senior Mercedez Flores. Amongst her drama students, Mrs. Marquis is never afraid to laugh out loud or poke fun at her own mistakes. “She has led them by example, showing them the joys and trials of being part of the theatre,” says one. “And she’s managed to teach humility to a group of teenagers who wouldn’t otherwise be convinced that the world doesn’t revolve around them.”
100 Mr. Eric Richardson, Chandler coach
Never been to a track meet? Go watch Chandler’s sprinters and hurdlers tear it up and everything that comes after will be a letdown. A key factor in the Wolves’ dominance is Coach Richardson, whose athletes love and respect him not just for what he teaches them on the track but for how he cares about them all the time. “What sets him apart is that he actually cares what you think, and basically he is a father figure to our team,” says one athlete. “He is the best coach in the world, and if I had a choice I would have him be my coach for college. That can’t happen, but I will definitely be taking the training he gave me with me when I go.”
azTeenmagazine.com
Photo: Katie Egan, Hamilton ‘09
“Slem,” as she’s known amongst students, is a legend for having saved a person’s life using a defibrillator at a school function. Beyond that, she is beloved by the StuGo kids she advises because of her openminded enthusiasm for their ideas and her tireless promotion of school spirit. “If you have her as a teacher, she will never forget your name,” says one student. “And if she knows you, she will say hi to you whenever and wherever she sees you.”
Plenty of English teachers require their students to keep a journal, but a science teacher? To her students, this is just one more way that Ms. Goodman shows that she cares what they have to say. “She wants to get to know us,” says one. “She is helping us with issues that we face every day as high school students.” Many students use the journals to chronicle troubles they are having at home and in their personal lives. They talk about “things they wouldn’t talk to their friends or parents about.”
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St. Marry y’s stats 2525 N. Third St., Phoenix Colors: Green & White (By tradition, Gold is reserved for playoff games) 101 Year Opened: 1917 51
Enrollment: 788 Motto: Once a Knight, always a Knight
17
10
Highlights: 2009 5AI boys basketball state champions and girls runners-up 2007 5AI softball state champs 2009 National Gold Council of Excellence Award from the National Association of Student Councils 2008-09 St. Mary’s students will perform more than 25,000 hours of community service Photos provided by St.
Mary’s Yearbook Staff
Nicole Ann Rodia May 26, 1991-April 6, 2008 Many members of the St. Mary’s community expressed to azTeen that any feature on the school wouldn’t be complete without recognition of one very special student, Nicole Rodia, who was supposed to be graduating this year. Nicole, a popular swimmer and softball player, died last year in a car accident on her way home from church. Patches and stickers with her softball number, 8, are worn on most St. Mary’s team uniforms and can be seen on students’, parents’ and faculty members’ cars. azTeen dedicates the entire Summer issue to this special young lady, whose loss is still felt every day by those whose lives she touched. azTeenmagazine.com
96% of 2009 grads will go on to college. About $3.5 million in scholarships has been awarded to St. Mary’s grads over the past three years 11 St. Mary’s students signed letters of intent in 2008-09 to participate in university athletics In 2007-08, 79 Knights were named scholar athletes for maintaining a 3.5 GPA while participating in a varsity sport
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The
Knight life:
A family tradition
T
radition at St. Mary’s is what we, students, alumni, teachers and our growing community, are most proud of. One kind of tradition that is important to us is that of family legacies; for years there have been Pachecos and Rideaus at the school. The Pacheco family has had a total of 51 people attend St. Mary’s, and that doesn’t include the other alumni that they married. Sophomore Karina Pacheco is the fifty-first member of her family to attend St. Mary’s. As a sophomore, Karina loves to play softball and dances with the Harmony Dance Company. Many alumni who excelled in sports at St. Mary’s have been inspired to come back to the school to coach. The entire current JV football staff are alumni, and other Knights are on the coaching staffs of baseball, golf, softball, tennis and volleyball. We also have a strong tradition in student activities. Our student-body president, Sarah McShane, comes from a line of siblings and extended family members who were active students at St. Mary’s before her. The line does not stop with Sarah, however; she has younger sisters who will attend St. Mary’s in a few short years. St. Mary’s prides itself on keeping tradition alive through all aspects of the school. This is one reason why alumni continue their support of and involvement in the school and send their children to St. Mary’s. “Once a Knight, always a Knight” is a familiar saying echoed through the halls of St. Mary’s and definitely rings true for all of us. —Victoria Munson, ’10
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summer 2009
Knights’ dream E
season
on the court
arlier this year, both the girls’ and guys’ basketball teams at St. Mary’s reached the state championship. The girls’ team lost a heartbreakingly close game and became state runners-up, while the boys’ team won State. It wasn’t the first time that both our basketball teams made the playoffs, but for the boys’ team it was a dream that has been in the making for three years. With nine seniors on the team, this year the pressure was on more than it was in years past. This season’s team had a lot more chemistry, which in the end made all the difference. Blake Davis, a senior who has played varsity for four years, says that the difference was not only because it was the last year they could achieve the State title, but also because in previous years the team had the mentality of ‘there’s always next year.’
“We doubted ourselves and were not as confident,” he says. “We wanted it more this year and didn’t let the atmosphere get to us.” Another leading factor in the Knights’ victory was Demetrius Walker, a transfer from California. Although he had to sit out at the beginning of the season, that didn’t stop him from giving the team energy from the bench and coaching advice. Not only did the school see a change in the team’s mentality and chemistry, but so did head coach Dave Lopez, who says that the “hardest part was blending the talent. We had a dream team of stars.” He adds that support from the school was key and believes that the fans “were our sixth man.” This was the end of a great high school basketball season for nine seniors on the team as well as an entire school that has been waiting for this golden year. —Juliana Manzanárez, ’09
Landmarks old and new T
o many, St. Mary’s is known as the school that is rich in tradition and is a place thousands of people think of as home. This school has a lot of history. Founded in 1917, St. Mary’s has had a few addresses over the years, but the landmarks we have on our campus today have a lot of meaning for current Knights. The arch is our oldest and most sacred landmark and the easiest to spot. When St. Mary’s was located on Polk Street, the arch was the doorway of the school. When the campus closed in 1988, they moved the arch to the campus that we have today. The gym is another landmark we have at our school. It was built in 1991 and was a labor of love. The school raised money and bought different scraps from other torn-down gyms and azTeenmagazine.com
was made up by volunteer labor from students, parents and alumni. Each Hall would be considered as a landmark as well. Each Hall was named after pioneers that assembled St. Mary’s and that have made a huge impact. The office building, Blaise Hall, was built in 1989 when the new school opened. They built a trophy case in the lobby, which adds to the landmark. Another building, Celesta Hall, has murals that depict a story of St. Mary’s history and also illustrate many people who established our tradition. You can find tradition throughout St. Mary’s just by walking through the hallways of Nevin, Celetsa and Blaise Halls. —Stephanie Gutierrez, ’10
The
Model Life St. Mary’s cover models Miguel Alcocer, ’09, and Kristi Hintze, ‘10, give us some insight on just who lives within that stunning exterior.
Kristi
The WORST advice I ever received is…that you always have to swallow your gum. The best advice I ever received is… follow your heart and you’ll What I like about St. Mary’s is…that never go wrong. there are some really chill teachers like Mr. Kelly, Sister Mary Magdalene, What I like about St. Mary’s is… Coach Ferndizzle, Mr. Atteberry and Mr. Hart... Enough said! such, and I’ve made lifelong friends at St. Mary’s like my bffs Madison and My favorite ice cream is… Victoria. I love you guys! Strawberry Sundae from Mary Coyles My favorite popsicle flavor is… the rocket ones that are rainbow flavored. The best thing about this summer will be… going to Hawaii and The best thing about this summer Sweden, hanging out with my will be… the beachhhhh. Yeeee! girlfriend and making boards with Johnny. If you want to make me laugh, you should…not do it during mass, cuz I If you don’t want to see me mad, won’t be able to stop. It’s really bad! don’t ever… disrespect the people who mean the most to me. In 10 years, I hope I’m…married to Johnny Depp. Oh, and I’ll be a In 10 years, I’ll be… hopefully dermatologist. Emily Schuler (bestie!) still on the cover of magazines and is gonna help me cure skin cancer. married.
Miguel
I want my classmates to remember me as someone who… can laugh at herself and perculate at lightning speeds.
I want my classmates to remember be as someone who… knew how to have fun and was always the life of the party.
The most important traits in a guy The most important traits in a girl are…a cute smile, good sense of are… I have found everything in my humor and loyalty. girlfriend, Sophia. She’s basically the girl version of me. When I’m not modeling for magazine covers, I’m…eating When I’m not modeling for delectables with Lil Wayne...Ha, no magazine covers, I’m… hanging really I’m probably dancing around out with my girlfriend or chillin’ with with my friends and dying of laughter! the boys. My hidden talent is…I can skip backwards! Oh Dang! I’m secretly afraid of…sharks. Not just the real ones but when people pretend to be them in pools and like chase me. It terrifies me...and now it’s not a secret. One skill I wish I had is… mindreading.
Something no one knows about me is… I’m very close with both my parents. It’s a shame to see kids who distance themselves from their parents. I’m secretly afraid of… not accomplishing my goals in life. One talent I wish I had is… to throw down on the piano like Elton John.
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What’s the best thing about summer? “My favorite part of summer is having a whole bunch of free time. I love to play music, so in the summer I can just sit in my room and let the inspiration come to me.”
—Phillip Astorino, Corona Del Sol ‘11
“Going shopping frequently is a nice thing that summer brings, but I like going to the lake, relaxing and doing peaceful things with the time I have alone to myself.” —Sarah Winnegar, Gilbert ‘10 “The best thing about summer is sleeping ‘til noon, eating ice cream for breakfast and learning the important lessons of life like not running barefoot on the asphalt midday. Ouch.” —Sydney Tularaska, Arcadia ‘11
“No schedule telling me when I need to get up, eat lunch, or even pee, unlike school. I get to have more freedom to spend my time however I choose.”
—Seth Brimley, Sunrise Mountain ‘11
“My favorite part of the summer is getting to decide what I do with my time. I love traveling and meeting new people. I think the summer is the best time to branch out and meet new people from all over the state or the world.”
—Sarah Attaway, Phoenix Country Day ‘10
“I like travelling across the country to New York and getting a full night of sleep every day. I really enjoy having the extra time to work on my clothing line, Mill Outta High School.”
—Ricky Camargo, North ‘10 38
summer 2009
“My favorite part about summer is being free from school, hanging out with my friends and just having fun.” —Trevon Langston, South ‘10 “What I’m looking forward to most about summer is all the time I’m going to have to relax. It’s the best feeling to just relax and not have anything that is really needed to do or worry about. So far, I have no plans, but that’s the best part.”
—Darick Anderson, Horizon ‘10 “The best thing about summer is pretending like my parents don’t exist and staying out all night, not going to bed till six just because I can, being able to make music all the time whenever I want without the stress of schoolwork, forgetting anything at all that has to do with school, the sun stays out till 8, shows, CALIFORNIA, every day is spent with friends and the people you actually like, not the fake kids at school.” —Chris Trevigne, Saguaro ‘12
“The lack of clothing at the beach (on girls).” —Gabe Collins, Arcadia ‘12
“I’m graduating this year, so my family and some family friends are all going on a cruise to celebrate. The cruise is gonna be a great way to blow off all the steam that has built up over the four years of high school. I can’t believe it’s going to be over soon. I plan on making this summer the best yet.”
—Zach Cohen, Pinnacle ‘09
“My favorite part of summer is tanning, sleeping in, ice tea, chillin’ with friends, lazy days, crazy nights, shopping for the right swimsuit, vacationing all over and being carefree.” —Marissa Villareal, Mountain Pointe ‘11
“The best thing about summer is being able to go to bed at whatever time you want because you’re with your friends partying, and then waking up at whenever time you want to.” —Maggie Rodriguez, Xavier, ‘12
“You get to relax and not do homework or worry about tests. You can just sit there and do anything because there is no school.” —Raj Shah, North Canyon ‘10
“The long lazy days that have so much potential!” —Ana Simperova, Notre Dame ‘11
“Being able to have fun and spend time with your friends and family. Going places and discovering new things. Lying under the stars with your best friend or boy/girlfriend. And if you’re single, the summer is the best time to mingle and meet new people.” —Camille Rodriguez, Copper Canyon ‘11
“Easy. My favorite part about summer is that its popsicle season. My mommy lets me eat tons of popsicles even though there’s highfructose corn syrup in them.” —Cade Harner, Chaparral ‘10 azTeenmagazine.com
“The best part of summer is hanging out with my best buddy Kevin every day at work! We’re lifeguards at our community pool.”
—Mary Vendegna, Shadow Mountain ‘11
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