Spokesman Volume 52, Issue 3

whsspokesman Volume 52 Issue 3

Wheeling High School

December 11, 2015

900 S. Elmhurst Road

Wheeling, Ill. 60090

AP Government students promote awareness, education had submitted prior to the talk so that they could provide information relevant to WHS and answer questions that students had.

According to Ms. Chico, this Wildcat Talk In one of the most widely-attended Wildcat had the largest turnout yet between all the Talks ever, students in the AP Government periods that the Talks were held. and Politics class presented in-depth research “We had four periods where the theater was regarding the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria pretty full. I was getting worried that we may (ISIS). They discussed ISIS’s background and not have enough room. This was what I had origins, recent terrorist attacks and attempted hoped the Wildcat Talks would become,” Ms. to clear up any misconceptions regarding the Chico said. group’s goals and their connection to Islam.

Herrera noted that the talks not only had The talks began as a class discussion a large turnout, but also a large number of for the AP Government students after the students that were engaged throughout the terrorist attacks that took place in Paris in presentation.

November, but as the students learned more “I think (the audience was) very attentive. about ISIS and the attacks, Sandra Chico, AP Whenever I got the chance, like when we had Government and Politics teacher, brought up the videos playing, I’d look out at the audience the idea of presenting their and most of them you could findings in a Wildcat Talk, see were paying attention “We need to in order to inform the entire and they wanted to know school. what the students had to say,” inform our “I thought this particular Herrera said. students so that talk was important because Jessica Sikora, senior, also our own Muslim we have Muslim students at presented at the talks as part WHS and being that there of the AP Government class. students are not are so many cases of hysteria While she was nervous about the target of any and anti-Muslim attitude presenting to such a large throughout the country, as an stereotype... group of students at first, she educational institution, we felt that the presentations simply because need to inform our students overall went well. people are so that our own Muslim “They went a lot better students are not the target than I thought they would misinformed.” of any stereotype or hysteria go. I’m not much of a public or backlash simply because speaker and it was my first people are misinformed,” Ms. Sandra Chico, time ever presenting to such Chico said. a big crowd, so it went a lot AP Government Mercedes Herrera, better for me,” Sikora said. teacher senior, believes that the Sikora hoped that the talks not only cleared up talks helped dispel stereotypes misconceptions about ISIS and provided accurate and dispelled stereotypes regarding the Islamic information to a large number of students. faith, but that they also promoted news “People are easily influenced but I feel like if literacy. She believes many students were only you’re educated, you’ll know more, you’ll learn aware of major events, but did not know about and you won’t make those quick judgements,” the history of ISIS or about smaller terrorist Sikora said. attacks that have taken place in the Middle Ms. Chico hopes the success of this Wildcat East.

Talk will keep students interested and engaged “I’m pretty sure many people didn’t know in learning more about the world and different what was actually going on. They heard about issues.

Peace for Paris, but they didn’t hear about what “I hope that we can keep riding this wave happened in October or what has happened and hopefully come up with another good since 2011,” Herrera said. topic for another Wildcat Talk,” Ms. Chico The AP Government class prepared their said. information for the talks using multiples news sources, websites and interviews from Muslim For information on ISIS and terrorism and for WHS students. They guided their research a breakdown of the topics covered during the based on questions that social studies classes Wildcat Talks, see pages 6 and 7.

Kelly McKewin Co-Editor-in-Chief

Abi Cozariuc

Sandra Chico

Top: Jessica Sikora, senior, presents information on the different beliefs of Shia and Sunni Muslims. “People are easily influenced but I feel like if you’re educated, you’ll know more, you’ll learn and you won’t make those quick judgements,” Sikora said. Bottom: The theater was nearly full for all four of the Wildcat Talks. The talks were held on Tuesday, Dec. 1.

Faltushanskiy makes finals at Glenbrook debate tournament tournament of the year that we will face, by far. We’ve gone seven or eight times before in our history,” Mr. Hurley said.

The tournament contains three rounds Student Zalman Faltushanskiy, senior, which consists of preliminaries, semi-finals, became one of the finalists at the Glenbrook and finals. Prior to Faltushanskiy’s placement, Debate Tournament held at Glenbrook South only once has a student in the debate program High School, on November 21 and 22. managed to get to finals. Faltushanskiy was the Faltushanskiy was the only person from only student in Illinois to reach finals in this Illinois to become a finalist. year’s tournament.

Faltushanskiy has been a part of the Faltushanskiy’s performance consisted of school’s debate team since his freshman year. debating on ten different issues ranging from The team is coached by Mike Hurley, Mike taxing corporate use of water to American Burke and Adriana Soto, English Teachers. efforts to defeat ISIS to helping impoverished Mr. Hurley, who is the head coach, has been kids improve secondary education. During coaching the team since 1985. the final round, his topics came in the form The team itself is known at WHS for its of legislation, which involved one about success in the debate sphere, as they have won keeping Iran out of multinational talks to numerous awards throughout the past years. end the Syrian Civil War, and a second about National tournaments, such as the one protecting privacy on electronic networks. in Glenbrook, are held every few weeks When asked how he felt about his throughout the country. Multiple schools placement, Faltushanskiy was stunned, attend these tournaments frequently, which but pleased with his performance at the puts them on the National Circuit. WHS is tournament. not on the Circuit, but took the opportunity “My placement came as a large shock to to compete due to the close proximity of me. This tournament is notorious for having Glenbrook South. Mr. Hurley explained that a bias against competitors from Illinois is a “once in a blue moon” opportunity for the because this is a national tournament. Most team. competitors are from Florida, North Carolina, “(The tournament) is the most difficult California and Texas, and they travel across

Max Piasecki Assistant News Editor

Eleni Kalli shares her experiences moving from Greece Jean Pabon

4

the country competing in many national tournaments throughout the year. Because of that, the competitors have a different speaking style and most judges are used to that. I’m only the second debater from Wheeling to ever make it to the final round at The Glenbrooks, among some incredible debaters…To say that I was shocked by my placement was an understatement; I hardly expected to make it to semis, let alone finals,” Faltushanskiy said.

Faltushanskiy has made previous successes in the past, qualifying for the 2015 NSDA National Tournament in Dallas last June, and being a member of the third place team at the 2014 ICDA State Tournament. However, Faltushanskiy stated that his Glenbrook performance was, by far, his strongest individual achievement in all his years on debate.

Faltushanskiy credits his success to his supporting coaches and team, who have helped push him to improve as a debater. “(My coaches) always see room for improvement in me and push me to succeed at every tournament. Also, I couldn’t have done so well without my team. My team members helped me do a lot of research for the semifinal and final rounds, and without them, I wouldn’t have been able to give the speeches I gave,” Faltushanskiy said.

Adele’s new album is strongest one yet

9

Zalman Faltushanskiy

Zalman Faltushanskiy, senior, poses for a photo after the Glenbrook Debate Tournament, where he was the only finalist from Illinois.

Wrestling team starts season off with winning record Jean Pabon

11

2 News

December 11, 2015

Maintenance crews make updates for increased safety Kelly McKewin Co-Editor-in-Chief In an effort to increase safety in mechanical rooms throughout the school, more safety procedures have been put into place. Roel Acevedo, building and grounds supervisor, implemented the changes this year by painting red lines around mechanical and boiler rooms, indicating the areas of the room where it is safe to walk.

“We added some safety lines so that for anyone walking down there, staying on the red line, it would be safe and away from any mechanical equipment that could hurt them,” Mr. Acevedo said.

Mr. Acevedo implemented a similar procedure at Rolling Meadows High School in the past, and decided to do the same thing at WHS when he became a supervisor this year, after seeing the success at RMHS. “The fire inspector really liked it a lot when he went through his inspection (at RMHS).

They appreciate that because it’s all about safety for them and if we can show everyone that

we’re making the effort to keep everyone safe, they really really like that,” Mr. Acevedo said.

While the new painted lines and updated mechanical rooms will primarily help maintenance crew workers, they will also affect a number of students in the technical crew and theater program by increasing their safety.

A boiler room connects the stage to the technical booth above the theater, and students in the tech crew program responsible for controlling lights and soundboards have to walk through the room to reach the booth.

In the past, it was often difficult to avoid machinery when walking through the room, but the new lines create a safe path to the technical booth that students can easily navigate.

“I did it upstairs in the theater because it was a mechanical room and some kids would run up there and we want to make sure they’re okay. If they stay on the line they’re not going to get hurt or run into any mechanical equipment,” Mr. Acevedo said.

Mr. Acevedo plans on continuing to make small changes around the school that will increase the safety of both students and staff.

Roel Acevedo

The boiler room that connects the stage to the technical booth above the theater was recently updated with lines painted on the floor as a path through the room. Students in the tech crew can now navigate through the room more safely and easily.

Advanced wood’s students work on projects to benefit school Max Piasecki Assistant News Editor Advanced woods students are partaking in a consultation project with teachers in order to build various products.

Kurt Fenzel, technology education teacher, had the students start the project in early November. Currently, students in advanced woods have been learning a wide range of concepts. This includes how to use CNC machinery, common manufacturing practices with non-metal materials and staying in touch with current manufacturing trends.

With the consultation project, students will be focusing on design, costs and estimations, building the product and on learning to work with customers, who are in this case randomly chosen WHS teachers. Mr. Fenzel revealed that there have been some challenges with the

project, crediting it to the advanced nature of the skills that are being worked on, time management and a lack of experience with this type of work.

“I’ve never done this before, so I don’t know how long it’s going to take, and we haven’t worked on it consistently everyday. There’s other stuff that we’ve been learning in between and they’re also working on their independent projects,” Mr. Fenzel said.

One of the reasons Mr. Fenzel chose this project was due to challenges students can face when working independently.

“A lot of them took this class because they wanted to learn more, and they wanted to do an independent project. What’s interesting is a lot of them, when they get the freedom to build their own project, have a really hard time picking something out. In my experience they don’t really seem to enjoy it as much,” Mr. Fenzel said.

One of the stipulations for the project is that the final product has to be made for the school. Had interest been low, Mr. Fenzel would have had the students create products for the teachers’ personal use. However, due to a high interest that included over thirty teachers wanting to be involved in the collaboration, Mr. Fenzel went ahead and chose teachers who wanted products created for the school.

Some of the products being made include a shot put holder for a truck, a badminton rack for the gym, a guitar holder, an indoor baseball mound, a marble ramp for science classes, mail holders and a team-building labyrinth for Operation Snowball.

The projects are mainly intended to help organize classrooms and improve the teaching environment.

Currently, eight teachers and eleven students are working together to create these projects. One of the teachers involved is

Carrie Mattingly, social sciences teacher, who is collaborating with Luis Hernandez and Brayan Cervantez, seniors. Hernandez and Cervantez are creating a five slot by six slot paper organizer for Ms. Mattingly, who needed it for her desk.

“I’ve been thinking about getting one for awhile but the ones online were either really expensive or poor quality. When Mr. Fenzel sent out his email asking teachers if they had any projects they wanted made, this seemed like the perfect opportunity,” Ms. Mattingly said.

Teachers such as Ms. Mattingly welcome this collaboration and have expressed interest in doing it again. However, Mr. Fenzel has mixed emotions about the project and is relying on student feedback to see if he will continue it.

Their feedback will ultimately determine what Mr. Fenzel will decide to do with the project in the future.

Arts

December 11, 2015

3

Art students participate in annual D214 art sale

competition, with each school’s art teachers as judges.

To keep it fair, the teachers aren’t allowed to vote for someone in their school.

“They vote for one senior who they feel has outstanding work. It’s always a difficult decision.” Ms. Silver said.

Every year, D214 organizes an art sale, collecting The fine arts classes have sold glass fused jewelry, prints money from each school to a provide of students’ photographs, laser cut boxes, a scholarship for one student. as well as small handmade paintings. The Before holding the sale in school, prices of these products can range from “The first year, it it was being held at Forest View $7 a piece to $10 a piece. It all depends was a sale of faculty Educational Center. The art sales on the pieces. artwork, the second have been going on for four years.

“Mrs. Silver and Mrs. Bale mostly “The first year, it was a sale of thought of what to sell for the sale, but year, it was also faculty artwork, the second year, it they definitely got our opinions on it so faculty artwork, was also faculty artwork, and the it was a group effort,” Meghan Aguayo, and the third year, third year, it was student artwork, senior, said. it was student but only at Forest View. So we Organizing the sale was as simple as think it’s better to put it more in artwork, but only at determining a winner. “The art teachers the hands of students and make it were discussing what to sell, how much Forest View. So we more student driven, but also reach to sell it at, and basically found students think it’s better to out to the schools because when that had lunch during the periods we put it more in the we have it at Forest View, parents, were selling and just to sit there and sell administrators and members of the them,” Maggie Scanlan, senior, said. hands of students community are certainly welcome to Both Aguayo and Scanlan contributed and make it more come by and participate in the sale. to the sale by making fused glass It’s so much nicer to bring the sale to student driven.” pendants. them and raise awareness that way.”

If anybody wishes to purchase Rebeccah Silver, art teacher, said. products from the art sale, there are Rebeccah Along with Ms. Silver, Julie Bale, still some left. Just stop by Mrs. Silver Silver art teacher, and Kevin Mueller, or Mrs. Bales’ classroom. “We still have student teacher, also helped out with Art Teacher pieces for sale if anyone wants to stop the sale. by and buy something, but we’re also Determining a winner is fairly planning on selling work at Forest View easy. Each art teacher nominates one senior from Educational Center on the day of the show,” Mrs. Silver their art class to participate in an art show, basically a said.

Shailah Magallon Assistant A&E Editor

Art students and Ms. Silver handmade these necklaces. Meghan Aquayo and Maggie Scanlan, seniors, are two of the students who made them.

Ryan developes graphic design skills David Moldavskiy Staff Reporter

Matthew Ryan

One of Matthew Ryan’s, senior, pieces of art that he made for Graphic Design.

When people think of art, they seem to imagine painting, acting and music, but people sometimes forget about the technical side.

Look at the “Artist Of The Month” infographic.

It was created by none other than the handy work of the graphic designers at Wheeling High School. Rebeccah Silver, graphic design teacher, stated that the graphic design program at WHS started out with only two courses but has expanded into almost a dozen different sections.

At the core of this program, you can always find Matthew Ryan, senior. Ms. Silver didn’t even hesitate to name Ryan as Artist of the Month, for the graphic designers.

“I took Arts 1 my freshman year, fell in love with it and then I saw the graphic design class in my course recommendation,” Ryan said.

“The rest is history.”

Art has always seemed to be a part of Ryan’s life, but he could never really find his forte until his sophomore year, when he first started with the program at WHS. “I’ve always enjoyed art as a kid, I just wasn’t very good at making it with my hands. Then I got to high school, tried the graphic design class, and found I was really good at making things on the computer,” Ryan said.

He always goes into an assignment with a vision, a goal, although, not everything always turns out the way he wants it, he still loves the end result. Ryan describes it as “hit or miss.”

He is the strong, yet quiet, leader in the class, he is always willing to help someone when they need it. Peers have no problem asking Ryan for help in class. Silver says he leads by example, and that he doesn’t need to speak to influence others.

“Matt always comes into class totally focused on what he’s doing, not distracting others,” Ms. Silver said. “Most students will walk into a classroom, see their friends, and completely disregard the task at hand. Not Matt.”

Ryan does see himself using his talent in the future. Although he has not applied for any scholarships, he is planning on it. Harper seems to be in mind for Ryan, after placing in an art show there.

Graphic Design isn’t the easiest course to be successful in. As a sophomore, Ryan was excelling, as Silver stated.

“Matt was always performing at exemplary levels. He is an artist at heart,” Ms. Silver said.

“He’s sort of soft spoken, but he is extremely intelligent. Whenever he speaks, it’s very profound.”

Ever since he started in sophomore year, Ryan has taken a graphic design course every year. He hopes to create company logos in the future as a career.

Winter play cast consists of old and new performers Xavier, Winter Play director, said. “Some years you get the kind of core people always audition Chris Alvarado and then they graduate and then you get the A&E Editor freshmen who have never auditioned and so we got a couple new faces this year so that’s really interesting and exciting to see.”

Every year, the drama department puts on For Danila Kazak, junior, this was his first three theatrical performances: the Fall Play, the time auditioning for a school play.

Winter Play and the Spring Musical. This year’s “I wanted to do one for a pretty long time Winter Play is called “The Bold, The Young but sadly I couldn’t find enough time to really and The Murdered.” It is about a soap opera commit to such a big thing as a play,” Kazak cast whose ratings have dropped so low that the said. “Also, Dr. Xavier is one of my favorite producer of the show locks its cast in a room for teachers and he told me that I have what it takes 24 hours to produce better episodes. However, to get a role in the play so this year, I auditioned throughout the 24 hours, cast members are for the winter play and got a role.” being killed off. The ensemble stars 13 students Other students like Jack Dipaolo, junior, all with equally important parts in this dramedy. have a long history of performing. Dipaolo The cast also consists of a diverse mix of has been in Fusion and multiple plays in the students who have been in a number of school past. Including Fusion, this is Dipaolo’s fifth productions before as well as students who have production. never auditioned for a school play before.

“I am really excited because acting has “There were a lot of new faces,” Dr. Orin always brought a smile on my face,” Dipaolo

said. “Performing in front of people has always inspired me to keep acting.”

The play will run Jan. 28, 29 and 30 at 7 o’clock each night. With opening night approaching, the cast is excited and nervous.

“I am extremely nervous as well as excited to perform for multiple reasons,” Kazak said. “One of the reasons is a simple fact that it is my first time in the play, and I’m really excited because this is something I’ve been dreaming about doing for a long time now.

The Winter Play is on January 28, 29 & 30 in the WHS Theater.

Tickets are $5 at the door!

4 Feature

December 11, 2015

Grecian transfer student adujusts to living in Wheeling swim in the ocean. first day of school. Walking into a new school Even though Kalli that uses your second or loved life in Greece, when third language is nerve On a typical day in Athens, Greece before she was told she would be wracking to say the “(School in Greece) was Eleni Kalli, freshman, moved to Wheeling, moving to America, she least; however, despite so, so smaller than this.

Illinois, Kalli’s life was that of a typical was excited. her nerves and a mix-up teenager. She went to a strict school with a “I was so excited that left her schedule The education is very tough curriculum, homework took up a lot of because it’s America,” blank, Kalli found different because we her free time as did her volleyball team. She Kalli said. friends that made her had science classes like would spend extra time in her dance program The exciting new feel more at home. chemistry and we had or her English school, leaving little room for adventures America could Kalli connected with real free time. offer Kalli in her move another WHS student religion which I don’t While Kalli’s life in Athens was similar to allowed her to feel a bit who spoke Russian and have here since I’m a a typical American teenagers’ in many ways, better about having to moved from Ukraine freshman.” she also had unique opportunities not typically leave her friends and within the past year. available in America. She attended a highly much of her personal After becoming fast selective public school that only selects 100 items, because of shipping Eleni Kalli, friends, they were able students out of 700 applicants, she learned to costs, at home. to branch out and freshman speak English, Russian, and a bit of French at a When Kalli finally form bonds with other young age and she lived in a city rooted deeply arrived at her new home students around them in our world’s history. Whenever she could and it came time for her through Orchesis and spare a few hours during the summer she was to start her first day of high school, she was Freshman Class Board. able to drive for 10 minutes and then be able to nervous, much like every freshman on their While school played a role in allowing Kalli

Abi Cozariuc Forum Editor

to adjust to life in America, it could not prepare her for the shock that took place last month.

The few inches of snow that Wheeling recieved was the first time Kalli had ever seen snow on the ground. In Greece, Kalli would not be able to distinguish the seasons as well as she is able to do here. However, despite the cold, Kalli loves the weather and the novelty of it all.

Now that winter is well under way, as is the school year, Kalli is well settled into her new life, but still remembers her old life in Greece fondly.

“I was sad (about) leaving my friends, but I’m okay now,” Kalli said.

Kalli says that despite what she left behind, she is happy with her new life and the new advantages it brings her. All of the change Kalli went through allowed her to see a lot of different cultures, a definite asset to her future.

Kalli looks to her future here in America with both excitement and anticipation of what is to come.

Feeling like a princess: quinceañera memories that last but we figured it out,” Correa said.

Correa also had a struggle finding the perfect dress.

“There was a very specific (dress) that I “Quinceañera season” is actually a thing, wanted and the shade of blue was hard to find. and it’s heard a lot at WHS. It’s the time where When I got it, it looked more like a sea foam many freshmen and sophomore girls have their green but the color was bright which was just quinceañeras and invite a bunch of friends right for the season,” Correa said. from school. Every Saturday for a good month there will be a quincenera for someone at WHS somewhere. The day of a quinceañera is full of happiness, tears, worry, fun, laughter, rushing around and love.

“Once I put on that A quinceañera is more than just the dress, I felt like the most equivalent to a Sweet 16. It is a traditional Latin American celebration of when a girl turns important thing in the 15, the transition from childhood to young world.” womanhood.

In the morning of a quinceañera can be Tania Arellano, pretty hectic. Having to wake up early to get ready “quickly” and let’s not forget putting on senior a huge ball gown-type dress. Teresa Correa, senior, recalls her morning.

“I recall the day (of the quinceañera) Tania Arellano, senior, had an easier time being very hectic even though everything was getting ready. She had her hair and makeup extremely organized and prepared. I woke up done by her older sister because Arellano really early to go to a place in Chicago where trusted her with that. they were going to do my hair and makeup.

“I went to Chicago to buy my dress. It I thought it was too much since I normally was royal blue and it was very big and poofy. wouldn’t wear that much makeup but I was Once I put on that dress, I felt like the most assured that some of it would wear off but it important thing in the world,” Arellano said. had to look noticeable for pictures. It took Both Arellano and Correa still had fun and more than just my mom to get the dress on me heartfelt moments the day of.

Courtesy of Teresa Correa

Top: Tania Arellano, senior, performing at her quinceanera. Bottom: Teresa Correa, senior, poses with her friend Kanae Ono, senior.

Ben Wyatt

Olivia Ksiazk

Spokesman interviews members of the Little Wildcat preschool class

Want to read more about the process of planning a quinceañera? Read about it on <www.wheelingspokesman.com>

Leo Padron

Courtesy of Tania Arellano

“My parents didn’t cry until it was time for the waltz with my dad. I came across an unexpected moment when I was dancing with my dad because we had both decided on the waltz we wanted to dance to but he changed his mind and hadn’t told me.” Correa said.

“The music started playing and for a second I was going to stop and tell someone that it wasn’t the right song but my dad smiled and then I knew. It was the cheesiest song ever and it’s all I talked about when we were dancing. It was a very unexpected moment because him and I are similar in the sense that we both like to be very organized and prepared but not so much spontaneous,” Correa said.

Arellano also had a waltz with her mom as well as a surprise dance. She’s thankful for the chambelanes from Angel Quinceañeras that contributed to making the surprise dance look amazing.

“The funniest moment (of the night) was when my mom started thanking everyone for coming to my party and then she just started crying hysterically!” Arellano said.

Although a quinceañera only lasts a day, the memories last a lifetime. However, the planning for a quinceañera takes about a year.

Hazel Wyatt

Erika Pogorzelska Feature Editor

What do you want to be when you grow up?

A princess

A ninja turtle

A Baby

Lloyd the golden ninja

What do you think the sun is made out of?

Easy

Hot

Hot

Light

What do you hope to get for the holidays?

A princess Lego set

A ninjago Lego set

A Chloe baby

A ninjago Lego set

My mom

Umm, daddy

My daddy

Who do you look up to?

My sister

Information and photos collected by Kevin Garcia

Feature 5

December 11, 2015

Bring it back: transformation Barcenas continues to persue of slang used among teens his DJ career after two years mix with them and mix something new,” Barcenas said. Barcenas says he tries not to emulate any DJ’s sound and tries to have his Two years ago, Alex Barcenas, senior, own unique sound to get noticed. had aleady kicked off his DJ career. Since “But I do look up to a lot of mainstream then, Barcenas has improved and learned a artists just because they made it really, really lot from his experiences. He’s had over 100 high up to the top. They’re inspiring people performances since, consisting of private events everyday because years ago you didn’t see these and paid gigs. types of genres or this genre in general in the “I’ve performed at events like weddings Grammys and now they’re winning platinums,” before,” Barcenas said. Now he performs at Barcenas said. teen clubs like Medusa and Zero Gravity.

Barcenas dreams of becoming a big DJ. He even headlined at a Paint Party rave in “I really look forward to getting to the top.

Wisconsin.

I wanna be one of the best selling artists...

Barcenas says he gets a lot of positive Selling out at shows and win a Grammy and feedback after his performances. of course be better than ones (DJs) we already “People that book me say they’d love to have and be more unique,” Barcenas said. have me back and so far I haven’t ever recieved Barcenas plans on expanding himself negative feedback,” Barcenas said. through social media to get his name and his Barcenas’ DJ name is still in the works, not work out and reach out to different crowds of yet finding a name to brand as. people.

“As of now I just go by my first or last Barcenas spends hours and days on mixes. name,” Barcenas said.

It has taken Barcenas two years to finish one His style of music has also changed over the track that still isn’t perfected yet. He has mixes years. uploaded on his soundcloud: “I always like to explore new genres and https://coundcloud.com/dj-alex-barcenas

Erika Pogorzelska Feature Editor

Then: my peeps

Then: bro

Then: don’t be ghetto

Now: squad

Now: bruh

Now: that’s ratchet Courtesy of Alex Barcenas Information collected by Kevin Garcia

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Courtesy of Alex Barcenas

Left: Alex Barcenas, senior, performs a mashup at a rave. Right: Barcenas takes a selfie with the crowd at the Neon Wonderland Paint Party he headlined at in Wisconsin.

6 Focus

December 11, 2015

Islamophobia: an issue of misinformation and ignorance non-muslim immigrants from arab countries. As well as a violation of civil rights, his policy is based on the prejudiced assumption that Muslims are all terrorists.

On Twitter, Trump has 5.12 million followers. 5.12 million people listening to his anti-islamic opinions.

While not all of those people share Trump’s beliefs Islamophobia refers to prejudice against people of and everything he has said is within the rights of free the Islamic faith. speech, there are still people who receive and believe In many cases, it can come from ignorance. misinformation.

“It’s the digital age and it’s so easy to get Even one person’s anti-islam beliefs can lead to information and people are not always cognizant violence, a shooting on Thanksgiving Day when, of what kind of source it comes from, and I think according to the Pittsburgh Gazette, a taxi driver that people who don’t fact-check perpetuate a lot was reportedly shot in the back of his head by his of negative generalizations about Muslims” said passenger for being a Muslim.

Amanda Bhansali, world history teacher.

“It just drives me absolutely insane that that is “People don’t seem to be forming opinions of occurring,” Emily Rodriguez, math teacher, said their own with things like Islamophobia. They’re regarding this incident. Though the driver survived, hopping on someone else’s bandwagon… and that this shows the extent Islamophobia reaches. bothers me just as much as what they’re saying,” But why do people commit hate crimes like this? citing social media as an example of the fact that According to Abdul Rafey Nasir, sophomore, “people aren’t willing to take the time to form their “people who have misinterpretations of Islam and own opinions about things.” think ISIS represents (it), they’re not educated in the This can be the case with a lot of ideas, especially values of Islam.” those perpetrated by prejudiced people. Rumors of a “If it’s misinterpreted once, like by a news gathering of Muslim people in Jersey City cheering organization, it gets more distorted when it reaches after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, for instance, though people, and the true values of Islam get lost,” Nasir not backed up by evidence, are still being spread said. “People think what terrorist organizations do around despite this. and what’s in the media (about Islam) is what Islam GOP candidate Donald Trump has already given is.” strong opinions regarding Muslim immigration Beliefs like these are often influenced by and even Muslim-American citizens, describing in misinformation or ignorance. To stop the spread an interview with Yahoo News a system of keeping of misinformation, Nasir suggests that “instead of track of Muslim people and with an identifying looking at what terrorists are doing now, try to learn marker as a possible policy he would institute as about the Qur’an from its roots--or from the religion president, to lessen risk of terrorist threats. Including itself--instead of looking at people for examples current american citizens and refugees from other because every individual has a different interpretation countries, the system does not address the place of of Islam.”

Josie Levin Asst. Focus Editor

England December 5, 2015 - A man stabbed one passenger and slashed the throat of another in what authorities are calling an attempted beheading in a London subway station.

Turkey Octob during

France August 21, 2015 - Man opens fire in train car heading for Paris, stopped by three US citizens.

November 13, 2015 - Terrorists bomb Leban six locations just ouside of Paris Novem bomb

Breaking it down: in case you missed the terrorism talks • • • •

Who is ISIS? established in 2003 Islamic extremist group members are radicalized Sunni Muslims active in Syria and Iraq

• • • • • •

What do they do? collect revenue from religious minorities steal and sell historic artifacts take hostages and collect ransoms take over oil fields for profit recruit via social media orchestrate and carry out attacks globally

What do they want?

• militant jihadist government

Islamic state

• gain territory • implement strict interpretation of Sharia law • fulfill prophecy - Muslims under same non Western government (caliphate)

What can we do?

• educate ourselves • Muslim = terrorist • stop referring to the group as ISIS, because they are not a state • Understand the true values of Islam and the teachings of the Quran (the Islamic holy book) Information collected by AP Government students

Did you miss the talks? Head to www.wheelingspokesman.com for video and presentation materials.

Do you agree with the stance politicians are taking on the ad “I support Syrian refugees entering the USA. Especially here in Wheeling, and in my own family, there has been a lot of immigration and I support them,” Sarah Meierdirks, freshman, said.

“I believe it’s wrong to not let them in.

They are just looking for freedom and I do not think that refugees are likely to be terrorists.

How can they be when all they want is a better life from poverty and war?”

Juliette Gonzalez, sophomore, said.

“ s T w th T w im w a th M s

Focus

December 11, 2015

7

Graphic by Luis Rodriguez

At press time...

• A pig’s head was left in front of a Philadelphia mosque (pork and pork byproducts are forbidden in Islam).

Belgium November 22, 2015 - raids take place in Brussels to search for Paris attack suspects and affiliates

• ISIS has obtained U.S.-made weaponry captured from the Iraqui military and Syrian rebels.

• 60% of ISIS-controlled Iraqui city Ramadi has been taken back by Iraqui forces.

y ber 10, 2015 - two explosions occur g peace rally at capital

• The female San Bernardino, CA killer is thought to have been radicalized two years before coming to the United States.

• Both San Bernardino killers are suspected to have pledged alleigance to ISIS before the attack.

non mber 12, 2015 - Double suicide bers attack busy shopping district.

Graphic by Matthew Ryan Info collected by Megan Provost and AP Government students

Concerns may alter Italy trip Megan Provost Co-Editor-in-Chief In light of recent events and of threats made throughout Europe, the Italian class’s trip to Italy over spring break may be subject to a change of plans.

“Our first thing is always the safety of our students, so if there is anything that is released that it is dangerous for us to fly, we would not even leave the country,” Ms. Angela Hawkins, Italian teacher, said.

Concerns about the safety of the trip arose after the terror attack in Paris. Parents were the first to express concern about sending their students overseas.

“My parents were really concerned, and at first decided I wouldn’t go anymore, but just recently decided I still should,” Adrianna Passanante, senior, said.

According to Mrs. Hawkins, the school board and school are currently in the process of discussing

contingency plans in the event that a problem were to arise during the trip.

“As of right now, we’re just looking at plans and what can we do in case something happens while we’re in Italy like escape routes, how fast can we get to the airport, maybe even just fly back home or just go to another city in Italy,” Ms. Hawkins said.

Areas of caution include the Vatican, which, according to Ms. Hawkins, is not an official threat but has been a concern for a while, and Rome. The Italian students are most frustrated with the possibility of not visiting Rome.

“That’d be really upsetting because that’s the most popular place to go in Italy and the fountain and everything it would be really upsetting to not see all of that,” Passanante said.

However, Ms. Hawkins maintains a positive outlook on the trip overall.

“Unless the United States releases a warning, I think we will be okay,” Ms. Hawkins said. “I’m positive about this. I think everything is going to work out, hopefully.”

Terror threat poses global implications, U.S. included David Ruvinskiy Staff Reporter Ever since March 5, 1957, when Iran signed a nuclear agreement, the United States has seen Iran as a potential threat to the Western Civilization.

Recently, homeland security has been one of the top priorities among the presidential candidates during the debates. Many Americans are concerned about the safety of the United States, specifically, the handling of the Iran Deal and ISIS. Although the well-being of the United States has been a top priority, there have been many threats toward our nation.

Two cousins, Hasan and Jonas Edmonds were seen as a threat to the United States after Hasen attempted to pick up military training schedules for his cousin.

The Chicago Tribune states that, “Both cousins were charged with conspiring to provide material support and resources to a foreign terrorist organization, a charge carrying up to 15 years in prison on conviction.”

Another potential threat was seen when James Stumbo, 27, and Kevin Norton, 18, were arrested after threatening violence against the Pokemon World Championship in Boston. According to ABC News, “Norton walked into court wearing a camouflage hunting t-shirt; Stumbo wore a grey shirt. Both are also charged with making violent social media threats and were ordered to be held without bail at their ar-

raignment today.”

There have also been people from the United States who have tried to join ISIS. On October 29, 2015, Mohammed Hamzah attempted to fly to Syria to provide support to a terrorist organization. As stated by NBC Chicago, “Mohammed Hamzah Khan of Bolingbrook was arrested last October at O’Hare International Airport along with two of his siblings as they tried to board a plane for Austria and then Turkey. The teens had airline tickets, passports and, according to the prosecutors, a plan to join ISIS.” Furthermore. a south-suburban mosque has recently been targeted with violent threats. According to CBS Chicago, “A recent Facebook posting included a reference to France and a threat to extract ‘an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth’ in connection with the local place of worship, says the Council on American Islamic Relations-Chicago.”

Although these threats may cause people to feel unsafe when going out to public places, Mr. Lou Wool, social science teacher, is not concerned about this. “I totally feel safe and I will always feel that way.

I will not let the terrorists disrupt my day to day activity, so yes I do feel safe.”

Mr. Brian Hauck, social science teacher, gave a detailed description about the role of our government towards Iran. “I think the government should continue to pursue individuals who are a threat to society. The difficult part is where to draw the line because anytime you gain security, you lose individual freedom.”

dmittance of Syrian refugees into the country?

“I think that we should help them.

They are still people whether or not hey are refugees.

This country was founded by mmigrants and we always inspire and help the rest of he world,” Mario Martinez, junior, said.

“I believe that we should help them out and let some in.

America is a country that always helps people around the world. We have so many places where we can set up camps to help them transition,” Ann Gutierrez, senior, said.

“It’s a complicated issue, and there is no easy solution.

But, America has always been open to immigrants and we should keep that as a foundation,” Derek Swierczek, math teacher and RTI coordinator, said.

Photo Opinion by Jean Pabon

8 La Voz

11 diciembre, 2015

Latino Summit y Harper College ortorga beca a cinco seniors de WHS Aide Hernandez La Voz Editor Latino Summit es un evento que toma lugar cada noviembre. La conferencia es patrocinada por la escuela de Harper College.

Cada año todas las escuelas del distrito 214 tienen la oportunidad de invitar a estudiantes latinos de primer año para atender.

Durante un día completo esos estudiantes en atendencia tienen la oportunidad de escuchar las historias de varios estudiantes universitarios locales y también graduados.

Mientras que el Latino Summit provee una oportunidad para que estudiantes, la mayoria primera generacion, sentir motivación uno de los beneficios al largo plazo se hacen presente el cuarto año de la secundaria. Esto por que al asistir Latino Summit cada senior puede aplicar por una beca exclusiva.

Este año WHS es feliz de anunciar que cinco de nuestros propios pudieron recibir la beca de Latino Summit o Marilyn Medina-Perez. Los individuos incluyen a David Torres Sandi, Jael Diaz Martinez, Ann Gutierrez, Maria Rivas, y Martha Adame.

Jael Diaz Diaz es originaria de México. Sus primeros años en WHS igualmente fueron sus primeros años en los Estados

Unidos. “Cuando llegue fue dificil por que no hablaba inglés, pero después fui mejorando hasta que por fin me cambiaron a clases de ingles y fuera de ELL,” dijo Diaz.

Diaz siempre a tenido interés en la gastronomía y encontró mucha diversión en la clase de gastronomía de WHS este año. “Planeó atender Harper College por dos años y después perseguir mis sueños por la artes culinarias.”

Aunque no conoce cuál universidad atenderá después de Harper, Diaz está segura que siguiera recibiendo una educación. Diaz le da bienvenida a esta nueva etapa de su vida con una palabra: emoción.

ella era una de las estudiantes en la audiencia hace tres años atrás Gutierrez simplemente dijo que “es una gran motivación de que estoy tomando los pasos correctos.”

Martha Adame Adame a sido una gran parte del programa de AVID aqui en WHS. Ella igual que los demás planea seguir sus estudios, aunque ella tiene que considerar un factor mas. Adame es una de miles de estudiantes quien no califican por ayuda financiera.

Cómo Diaz, Adame también planea asistir Harper College, “quiero transferir a una universidad de cuatro años y recibirme como enfermera.”

Ann Gutierrez Adame a sido una gran parte del Gutierrez dice que Latino Summit programa de AVID aqui en WHS. Ella le dio oportunidad de reconocer que igual que los demás planea seguir sus la comunidad Latina es grande y todos estudios, aunque ella tiene que considerar pueden conseguir todo lo que sueñan. un factor mas. Adame es una de miles de Durante su trayectoria aquí en WHS estudiantes quien no califican por ayuda Gutierrez tomó mucho tiempo y o financiera. dedico hacia actividades extracurriculares Adame también planea asistir como cross country.

Harper College, “quiero transferir a una Como muchos estudiantes, Gutierrez universidad de cuatro años y recibirme también está tomando en cuenta su como enfermera.” opción de asistir Harper College en caso Adame recomienda que los de no poder recaudar suficientes becas. estudiantes tomen ventaja de Latino “Sueño de un dia poder ser abogada de Summit. Después de haberlo hecho. “Me leyes” compartió Gutierrez. di cuenta que hay mucho estudiantes Mientras que Gutierrez se a exitosos que también tienen dificultades comenzado a preparar para la universidad financieras y salen adelante. Es tomando clases AP. Al recordar que maravilloso!”

Foto de arriba: (izquierda a derecha) David Torres Sandi, Jael Diaz Martinez, Ann Gutierrez, Maria Rivas, y Martha Adame posan con su certificado de la beca otorgada este pasado 20 de noviembre Foto de abajo: Manuel Martínez conversa con Maria Rivas en el escenario de Latino Summit en Harper College

Contradictorio a la creencia común, más Mexicanos están saliendo que entrando a los Estados Unidos Maria Gutierrez Staff Reporter

La Rosca de Reyes, como demuestra la imagen, es una parte clave en la celebración de los reyes. La rosca es consumida el día seis de enero. Dentro de la rosca hay bebés que se cocina por dentro y la persona que encuentra el bebé en su rebanada tiene que proveer una cena para la familia en febrero.

El Dia de los Reyes se aproxima, los maestros de WHS comparten sus tradiciones de la niñes Irene Keselman Guest Writer Sajani Patel Guest Writer En los Estados Unidos nos unimos para festejar festivales tradicionales. Por ejemplo, se acostumbra ir a ver los desfiles locales del cuatro de julio mientras que tambien se acostumbran desfiles y celebraciones de nuevo año, el dia de accion de gracias y tambien la navidad.

Asi como lo hay en Estados Unidos, hay festivales tradicionales en España, Latinoamérica, y en el Caribe. Uno que es muy único a los países Latinoamericanos y que cada dia se va acercando más es El Dia de los Tres Reyes Magos.

Mientras que es muy parecido a la Navidad, El Dia de los Reyes es festejado con énfasis en celebrar lo religioso de la época navideña más que a Papá Noel.

Aunque existe mucha similaridad entre las dos celebraciones. En lugar de un Papá Noel hay tres hombres llamados Gaspar, Melchor, y Baltasar. Melchor desde Europa, Gaspar desde Arabia, y Balthazar desde África.

Se acostumbra que ellos dejan regalos y dulces para los niños el día seis de enero.

Como cualquier otra celebración hay muchos tradiciones y algunos profesores de WHS toman parte de la gran fiesta. Muchos maestros celebrantes de WHS están de acuerdo que la parte más importante sobre esta fiesta es divertirse.

Cuando Joanne AmadorZapata,maestra de español, era una niña, los niños en su familia escribían cartas para los Reyes Magos, como lo hacen con Papa Noel en los EEUU, y colocaban cada carta dentro de un zapato. Al día siguiente, se encontraban con los regalos de los Reyes Magos. “(Mi familia y yo) nos divertimos mucho y es una oportunidad de compartir

en familia” dijo Amador-Zapata. Las festividades también suelen continuar durante la noche. “Una tradición para mi familia es cortar una rosca y esperar a quien le sale el bebé” dijo Elizabeth Delgado, maestra de historia. El bebé a cual se refiere es de plástico y se cocina dentro del pan tradicional de los reyes, conocida como ‘rosca de reyes’. Generalmente, la persona que encuentra el bebé, tiene que invitar a la familia a una cena en febrero por el dia de la candelaria.

Se puede decir que la rosca de reyes y la presentación de la carta es lo equivalente a nuestra carta de deseos y las galletas de navidad. También son las dos costumbres del dia de los reyes más conocidos. Aunque, claro, no son las únicas costumbres.

Igual que los maestros de WHS, estudiantes de WHS tambien tienen sus propias formas de celebrar y hacer el festejo una gran memoria. Fernando González, asesor de educación, también a crecido celebrando El Dia de los Reyes.

González recuerda que El Dia de los Reyes es compuesto de muchas partes diferentes y únicas. Cuando era niño, él y su familia se reunían y celebraban este día con mucha diversión. “Cuando era niño, cuando para celebrar El Dia de los Reyes en México uno dejaba una cubeta con agua y una cubeta con pasto el cinco de enero por la noche para que cuando llegaran Melchor, Gaspar, y Baltasar con sus animales tuvieran algo de comer y beber. Al otro dia en la mañana todos en la casa se despertaban ansioso por saber que habian traido los Reyes!”

Sin importar qué ocasión, las festivales todos tienen un enfoque acerca de las reuniones en la familia y las celebración de la felicidad. El día de Los Tres Reyes no es ninguna excepción. Aunque, se le conozcan muchas costumbres diferentes.

El significado detrás de el día, y la manera única en que las familias celebran el día es lo que hace este día tan especial y animado.

La inmigración siempre a existido, de Europa a los Estados Unidos, Asia a los Estados Unidos, y claro que también de Latinoamérica a los Estados Unidos. Aunque, parece que hoy en dia la mayoria de la atención y reportajes son basados en la inmigración de Latinoamérica hacia los Estados Unidos.

Con las elecciones presidenciales y con la política de la administración actual del president, Barack Obama, la inmigración ilegal es aún un tema más candente. Muchos apoyan la legalización de todos aquellos que ingresaron al país como ilegales mientras que otros están opuestos en completo.

En acuerdo con CNN desde el año 2009 hasta el año pasado se reporta que un millon de Mexicanos, muchos junto a sus familias, han abandonado los Estados Unidos por su país natal. Mayoría escogen regresar a sus países natales por las condiciones económicas presentes en los Estados Unidos y también por regresar con sus familiares que quedaron atrás.

La mayoría de Mexicanos que regresan a sus pueblos y ciudades natales escogen hacerlo por su propia cuenta. Frecuentemente, las leyes que se van estableciendo apuntan a lo opuesto: la deportación.

Año por año la leyes se van cambiando y se van haciendo más estrictas. Las leyes que están puestas en lugar hoy protegen la frontera de que nuevas persona la crucen. Mientras que el número de inmigrantes que se están regresando por su propia cuenta aumenta, el número de deportados también. Y sigue aumentando la cantidad con la administración de Barack Obama, opuesto a lo que se había prometido durante su candidatura.

Ahorita que estamos eligiendo un nuevo presidente es muy importante que todo los latinos que puedan votar o tiene familia que puede votar, voten. Más importante es que voten con la intención de mejorar la vida de todos los inmigrantes. Manteniendo en mente que antes era más fácil que los inmigrantes visitarán a sus familias y regresarán.

Como mencionado anteriormente, la frontera de los Estados Unidos se ha ido haciendo más estricta para mantener la seguridad. Mas de 322,600 personas fueron capturadas en el año 2013 al tratar de cruzar la frontera. También muchos inmigrantes indocumentados mueren en el intento por cruzar la frontera por el desierto cada año.

Aunque mayoría logra llegar sanos y salvos, algunos quedan abandonados sin manera de ser identificados.

Treinta tres por ciento de Mexicanos opinan que los que se van a los Estados Unidos tiene una calidad de vida igual que aquellos que se mantienen en Mexico. El propósito de los inmigrantes es buscar una vida mejor en los Estados Unidos. Asi que deben de tener la oportunidad de recibir una vida mejor, algo que se les prohíbe de más. Mucho simplemente están perdiendo la oportunidad de estar con sus familias y ver crecer a sus hijos para poder soportar la familia financieramente.

En promedio, los inmigrantes que vienen a los Estados Unidos tiene un plan de venir y quedarse por unos tres años, Durante estos tres años trabajan y mandan dinero luego para irse de regreso a su país. A pesar que está planeado, muchas veces no ocurre porque muchos no completan el dinero planeado y luego tiene que pagar gastos que hacen mientras que están en los Estados Unidos.

La única cosa que les da motivación para volver a trabajar son sus familias. ¿Te puedes imaginar no poder ver a tu familia por tres años o más?

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Entertainment 9 December 11, 2015

The underated shows and movies of Netflix

The Inbetweeners

Harper’s Island

“The Inbetweeners:” This is a British comedy series. It centers around four friends: Will, Simon, Neil and Jay. The series follows their journey as they try to survive the struggle that comes with being a teen. The show offers episodes focusing on bullying, broken family life, friendship, etc. The show spins-off into two movies, “The Inbetweeners Movie” and its sequel, “The Inbetweeners 2.”

“Harper’s Island:” If you’ve ever read Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None,” you will absolutely love this mini series. The show follows Abby Mills, whose mother was killed on Harper’s Islands. Seven years later, Abby returns to the island to attend her best friend’s wedding, but history repeats itself as guests from the wedding starts getting killed one by one. The show has 13 episodes, completing the storyline.

Roswell

Chris Alvarado A&E Editor

Since the rise in Hip Hop’s popularity, it has always been “East Coast vs. West Coast.”

Some of the industry’s biggest artists have come from either California or New York City and the battle has raged on for years over which coast produces better rappers.

One group of artists that is overlooked is the rappers of the Midwest, specifically Chicago and Detroit. Sure Detroit has Eminem and here in Chicago we kind of have Kanye West, but the rappers of the Midwest are constantly forgotten about. Here are some of the Midwest’s best underground rappers.

Royce Da 5’9 from Detroit has been in the industry since the mid-1990’s. He even started a duo with Eminem called “Bad Meets Evil.” The duo broke up in 2003 with

Dear Zachary

“Roswell:” This TV series is based on the Roswell High book series written by Melinda Metz. It’s a science fiction show, depicting the relationship between humans and aliens. The show follows three teens: Max, Isabel and Michael who possesses extraordinary gifts. They are sent to Earth to eventually complete their destiny in saving it.

They have hid their powers until Max heals Liz, a fellow classmate, which sparks an attraction.

The Midwest has the best underground rappers Eminem going on to becoming a superstar and Royce Da 5’9 producing underground.

Although he’s not as big as Slim Shady, his solo songs are definitely worth checking out.

One song to listen to is “One For the Money,” which came out in 2012.

Chicago has a history of producing great rappers from Kanye West to more recently Chief Keef. One underground rapper who’s on the rise is Lil Herb also known as G Herbo. He frequently raps about the struggle of growing up in the South Side of Chicago.

His music is raw and real by painting a clear picture of the life he lives. He has collaborated with people like Nicki Minaj, Common and Lil Reese. G Herbo has been rapping since 2011 and gained attention in 2012 when one of their songs was viewed over 10 million times on YouTube.

When it comes to rap, the Midwest has generated countless creative artists with an incredible amount of talent.

Picks of The Month: December

Album

Movie

“In Your Eyes:” This movie is your typical chick flick, except they never meet.

Ever since they were little kids, Rebecca Porter and Dylan Kershaw have been able to see and feel what the other does. The film is set twenty years later in which Rebecca is now married and Dylan recently got out of prison. They realize their unusual bond and start helping each other out with their lives, but they soon fall in love with each other.

Riordan releases compelling Mythology novel homeless teen, living in Boston, MA. Magnus Chase is the Son of Freyr Vanir God of Spring, Summer, Fertility and the harvest. He is then suddenly thrusted into this world filled with wonder, imagination and danger. We’re Rick Riordan is an American author who visited with the same spark of Percy Jackson wrote the Percy Jackson series and the Kane that made every teenager read it, though chronicles. He wrote the Percy Jackson series unfortunately, even though this is a new series, based on his son and when he would tell him the main character Magnus Chase is Annabeth tales of the Greek gods and made up tales of Chase’s cousin, one of the main characters Percy and his friends. from the Percy Jackson series.

“Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard” If you enjoyed Percy Jackson or you have is a compelling new series written by Riordan. an interest in Norse mythology this book is It gives a new take on Norse Mythology with for you. Although there are little things that a Percy Jackson-esque form, yet it adds its you will find that are inaccurate about the own flair. The Sword Of Summer is a great book, Riordan’s writing covers it up with introduction to the series, it introduces all of cleverness and good description. I give it a 4.5 the major places, myths and gods of Norse out of 5 paws due to its incredible story and mythology. Riordan’s writing mixed in with description, but lacking a good enough reason the myths and legends forces you to keep to connect one of the Percy Jackson main reading. characters to Magnus Chase.

We start off with Magnus Chase, a

Justin Dudgeon Staff Reporter

The Album, App, Movie and Fashion Trends that are hot right now!

Information collected by Lily Calderon

Madden Mobile

App

Mockingjay Pt. 2 We’re back with the second part to the chair grasping sequel to The Hunger Games, Mockingjay. It’s a heart breaking, and almost too good to be true film that concludes Katniss Everdeen, Peeta Mellark and all the other stars lives throughout the districts on the big screen. This is definitely a must see movie, so if you haven’t already, grab a couple friends, go over to the theatre and prepare for the ending of a lifetime!

In Your Eyes

“Dear Zachary:” A Letter to a Son about his Father: After a bitter break up, Andrew Bagby is murdered by his ex-girlfriend, Shirley Turner, who was pregnant with their son, Zachary.

This documentary is created by Kurt Kuenne, one of Andrew’s closest friends since the age of seven, to commemorate his life and show Zachary who his father was, but as unexpected events unfold, the documentary takes a twisted turn.

25 She’s back, and with a lot of power too. Adele has made an enormous comeback with her new album “25” featuring the hit song “Hello.” Her album is in the record books, having sold over 3 million copies in the first week alone! Adele’s unique voice puts her on top, so tune into the radio or get in on iTunes for a breathtaking experience in music.

Information collected by Shailah Magallon

It is the football game to play when you’re on the go.

You now have the power to create your own personal “dream team,” complete with a 16 game­season mode, the ability to compete with friends or join a League, and a chance to receive more awards. Now you don’t have wait until football season to watch it and play, with it all at your fingertips. Are you ready to rise to the top?

The Walking Dead

TV Show

You’ve heard about it, maybe you’ve dreamt about it, but if you’ve seen The Walking Dead then you’ve definitely seen it. A zombie apocalypse. We’re on season 6 of this thrilling TV series. Follow Rick, Daryl, Glenn, and all the other survivors on their life threatening journey. Who will make it, who won’t?

You can tune in on Sunday’s at 8pm on AMC.

10 Forum

December 11, 2015

Editorial: Blended classroom offers freedom, flexibility Innovative schools, such as Huntley High School in Huntley, IL, are moving towards a more independent and student-led curriculums and educational systems. These systems include practices such as the “blended classroom,” which allows students the freedom to structure their academic schedule according to their success in their classes. As WHS prides itself on being an innovative and forward-thinking school, Spokesman sees the potential in implementing this kind of practice sometime in the future.

In a “blended classroom” structure, students

#DecemberProbs Shoveling snow Spending all of your money on gifts When you have to scrape ice off of your car Thinking about finals during winter break

that are in good academic standing meet and attend class two to three times a week, and have the option to take the remaining days “off.” For example, if a student had blended English first period and maintained a qualifying grade in the class, he or she may only have to attend first period on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the student would not have to attend first period and could use their time as they see fit: they could do homework for other classes, hit the fitness center or simply take the extra time to sleep in.

In order for this kind of learning experience

to be effectively implemented, students must first be given more open access to different areas around the school. Rather than requiring passes filled out and signed by teachers to head to the Lit Lab or use the bathroom, students would be allowed to run an errand or visit a teacher freely and without question from staff. In cases such as Huntley, students must carry ID badges in order to do this. We at Spokesman feel that this would be a small price to pay for the greater amount of freedom offered by this system.

While any kind of movement towards a blended classroom structure would be a major

change for WHS and would require extensive research and planning beforehand, it is a system that should be considered as WHS strives to maintain and further its innovative nature.

The most important factor in this system’s success, however, would be the recognition and acceptance of responsibility on the students’ behalf. Cooperation between staff, students and administration would lead to the success of this kind of program should it be implemented.

6 out of 7 members of the editorial board agree

Unmet potential of WHS sports’ websites

sources such as the Daily Herald or Journal and Topics: two fine outlets in their own right, but not as good as the real thing.

Information about large teams, such as the Bulls or Blackhawks,

By Zalman Faltushanskiy is available both on their team Assistant Sports Editor websites and through news aggregators, such as ESPN or When I, as a sports fan, want Bleacher Report. Those companies information about my favorite do have beat reporters, but they teams, the first place I look is the still turn to the teams themselves team’s website. There, I find the for statistics and roster news. For team’s roster, its schedule, and player information. As a journalist teams to receive such widespread covering WHS sports teams, I often attention, they create specific publicity departments to properly wish for a similar website: one where I can easily find information disseminate information. Coaches have heavy workloads from about all of our programs. The coaching and teaching; thus, problem that I and the WHS student body face is that while such team managers, or even players themselves, could be designated a site exists, it doesn’t serve the to update the website and create a Wheeling community properly. true hub for WHS athletics. As a WHS Athletics’ home page is volleyball player, I could envision whs.rschoolteams.com, and it’s a me updating our website, doing great resource for finding teams’ my part to inform our community. schedules. But when it comes to Putting players in charge of team finding rosters and scores, two publicity is a way for those invested valuable pieces of information for in sports to get the community fans and journalists alike, they’re invested, as well. often missing. For those, I check

Cartoon by Katie Chong

Stop complaining, start seeking solutions

By Abigail Cozariuc Forum Editor

When someone uses the last tissue You have to wait for winter break Broken Christmas lights on your tree Information gathered by Josie Levin and Maria Gutierrez Cartoon by Seri Cho

In our day and age, technology plays a vital role in our education.

We’ve evolved from relying on computers to our school-issued iPads. We use them for anything from doing homework on Math XL to watching a Crash Course video.

Just as we revolve around our iPads, our iPads revolve around our school Wi-Fi. If our school Wifi is down then the entire school suffers.

Classes miss a day of curriculum, students are unable to get help with homework in the Lit Lab, and the whole day is put to a stand still.

While issues with the W-Fi being slow or not working altogether are inconvenient to say the least, the important fact to remember is that no one is usually at fault and complaining about the issue will not help.

It should go without saying that complaining about a problem does not make it magically disappear, yet people constantly complain about our Wi-Fi when there is little that can be done. Perhaps instead of simply complaining, one could offer

up useful suggestions to those who deal with these issues and maybe get real results.

“Everyone uses (the same) Wi-Fi and it’s too jammed so I say Freshman should have their own Wi-Fi, Sophomore’s should have their own Wi-Fi,” Wendy Avilla, Senior, said.

Avilla says that a disruption in the school Wi-Fi affects everyone, but she also proposed a solution to the issue. While the solution may or may not be able to fix our problematic Wi-Fi, it does show what should stem from our constant complaining: an attempt to fix the problem.

While I understand that complaining is a normal response towards problems, it should not be our only response. As young adults, we should be able to recognize a problem and not simply complain about it, but move on after complaining about the issue and look for a solution.

Next time we are faced with a problem, whether it be slow Wi-Fi or not being able to figure what Christmas gift to buy, we should go beyond simply complaining. We should move past the inconvenience and look for a solution. If we all tried to solve our problems instead of simply complaining about them, then we would eventually have nothing left to complain about.

Spokesman Staff 2015-2016 Editors-in-Chief Kelly McKewin* Megan Provost* News Editor Kelly McKewin

Forum Editor Abigail Cozariuc* Sports Editor Patrick Ryan*

A&E Editor Chris Alvarado*

Photo Editor Jean Pabon*

Feature Editor Erika Pogorzelska*

Copy Editor Jacob Sweetow*

Focus Editor Megan Provost

Asst. News Editor Max Piasecki

La Voz Editor Aide Hernandez*

Asst. A&E Editor Shailah Magallon

*Staff members with asteriks are members of the Editorial Board

Asst. Focus Editor Josie Levin Asst. Sports Editor Zalman Faltushanskiy Staff Reporters David Moldavskiy David Ruvinskiy Justin Dudgeon Kevin Garcia Lily Calderon Maria Gutierrez Sulayman Qazi Photographers Adolfo Delgado Kevin Garcia

Cartoonists Seri Cho Katie Chong Joceline Adviser John Uhrik

This is the official student newspaper of Wheeling High School, 900 S. Elmhurst Road, Wheeling, Ill. 60090.

Written, edited and distributed 8 times a year by advanced journalism classes, independent studies and other interested and qualified students. Produced by using desktop publishing and is printed by Son’s Enterprises, Inc., Skokie Ill. Mailed subscription $15 per year.

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

Readers are encouraged to contribute letters to the staff in room 137 or mail them in care of WHS. All letters must

be signed. Letters may be edited for length, style, possible libel, clarity, and adherence to our publication policies. Spokesman’s mission is to report the news objectively and truthfully. We will print any known errors here in the issue following our gaining knowledge of the error.

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

CorrectionsNo corrections

Sports 11 December 11, 2015

Wrestling maintains culture of Four male athletes bring spirit and strength to cheer team winning with young team the underclassmen, according to Weiner.

The team’s youth startles in comparison to the WHS wrestling teams from 2000Having amassed a 13-1 record at press time, 2009 who won nine regional championships, the WHS wrestling team has started its season produced two state champions and a plethora strong despite a relatively young team. The of state qualifiers. However, the Wildcats are Wildcats won second place in both the dual motivated by the success of previous teams and and individual Antioch meets, both of which look to build upon their culture of winning. were out of 16 teams. Other notable victories “The three biggest things that have conthis season include a 46-19 win over New Trier tributed to this year’s success are the success of Nov. 24 and a 75-0 shutout of Buffalo Grove last year’s team, individual wrestlers who work Dec. 4. hard in practice and fight on the mat, and the According to Neal Weiner, head coach, coaches who helped train them,” Wulfgang the Wildcats’ success is even more impressive Rankenburg, senior, said. “I expect the team considering the team’s youth. this year to win the MSL East and the MSL in “The difference this year is that we don’t general, and also for our team to have multiple have any superstars,” Weiner said. “We’re only state qualifiers.” starting two seniors this year. Even though we Many wrestlers take great pride in the WHS have young guys starting, we have a bunch of culture of winning, and look forward to the rest tough kids that work hard day in and day out, of the 2015 campaign. and that’s been a big part of our success.”

“Wheeling wrestling to me is just personal The freshman wrestling team has won the pride, that when I go into a match against a freshman conference the past two years, and kid from another school, that I’m going to win the junior varsity team is undefeated, all in because I will fight because I am from Wheeladdition to a current 13-1 varsity record. This ing,” Rankenburg said. continued success of the wrestling program is Wrestling takes on Hersey at home tonight built heavily upon the hard work and success of at 7.

Patrick Ryan Sports Editor

Carlos Montiel, junior, wraps up Tristan Guaman, junior, in wrestling practice. At press time, the Wildcats have amassed a varsity record of 13-1 and an undefeated junior varsity record.

As varsity letters lose popularity, letterman jacket sales decrease Patrick Ryan Sports Editor Movies like “Remember the Titans”, “The Breakfast Club” and “Grease” show the “ideal life” of pre-1990’s high school kids, especially high school athletes, and provide a glimpse into the fashion trends of what kids wore in those days. A common thread among the high school athletes in the movies and high school athletes in real life at the time was letterman jackets, which separated the athletes from the regular kids and served as a symbol of school pride.

But what is a letterman jacket? A letterman jacket is a jacket usually worn by high school or college students to represent school and team pride as well as to display personal awards earned in athletics, academics or activities.

Nowadays, very few high school athletes own a letterman jacket, which signals a major decrease in popularity from previous generations.

According to Stephen May, associate principal of activities, letterman jackets have been decreasing in popularity for some time.

“I don’t think it has anything to do with wins or losses, but more so that it’s just not the thing to wear anymore, it’s not in style,” May said. “I can’t even remember the last time I saw any athletes in the MSL wearing letterman’s jackets.”

According to May, to encourage interest

in letterman jackets, the Spur Club includes an order form in the envelopes athletes receive at sports awards night for each season, but that has not improved sales noticeably.

In addition to the loss of popularity, the jackets can often be expensive for families.

“One of the biggest reasons that sales have tapered off is that the jackets can produce quite a financial cost for some families,” Marianne Sennett, president of the Spur Club, said.

“However, if you buy the jacket freshman or sophomore year, the pricing is actually very reasonable because it will definitely last you throughout high school.”

Sennett continued, “I purchased jackets for my kids, and that was their winter coat throughout their high school years.”

Despite the decreased popularity of jackets, May believes they are still very worthwhile to own and wear.

“It’s a big accomplishment to earn your varsity letter, and I would love to see kids wear them,” May said. “It would be great if someone started the trend, because the jackets symbolize school pride and unity among athletes.”

Like May, Sennett believes that the letterman jackets are a trend worthwhile of being recovered.

“The jackets get school spirit and our name and colors out and about, and shows people who Wheeling is. We get a unified appearance in the stands, and I think that really goes a long way towards building [WHS] school

To readers, I regret to inform you that last issue, I illegally took and published two photographs from Varsity Views, a professional photography company, without permission. This was not only illegal, but ethically wrong as well, and it was a major error in my judgement. I apologize for using the photos, and I promise that it will never happen again.

Your sports editor,

Patrick Ryan

From left: Alex Barcenas, Alex Mendez and Yaryk Cochyl, seniors, cheer at the boys basketball game Dec. 4. Danny Rodriguez, senior, (not pictured) is the fourth male on the squad.

Then cheerleading was my answer to that, so I tried out and I liked it.”

Not only have these boys joined the girls in WHS basketball games are loud. Shoes cheers, but they have also served as the bases skidding on the hardwood, the pep band for very dangerous stunts. So far, the girls have blowing away at their horns and the shown great appreciation for their new male cheerleaders shouting away all make for an teammates. intense environment. This year, there is a lot “The girls are awesome. It’s definitely a more noise coming from the cheerleaders’ new experience working with a lot of females baseline. No, the girls did not learn some as your teammates, coming from a sport like new shouting technique and are not getting football where it’s all guys. They were very help from any sort of microphone. The cause welcoming when I first came in,” Barcenas said. of these extra decibels are WHS’s four male While it is quite common to see male cheerleaders, three of which are new members. cheerleaders, they still are the minority in a This winter, Alex Mendez, Yaryk Cochyl sport that has traditionally been dominated by and Danny Rodriguez join their fellow senior, girls.

Alex Barcenas on the cheerleading squad.

Barcenas recalls the first time he stepped on In addition to cheerleading, these four have the cheer floor,“It was nerve-racking. Last year, something else in common: they all began their I was the only dude on the team and it always WHS athletic careers on the football team. made me wonder what people were going to “Football is definitely one of my favorite think. I brushed that off, and I just said to sports and I enjoyed playing, but I guess I myself I’m just going to show them what cool only lasted a short amount of time. Then I stuff a guy can do in cheerleading.” just realized it’s time to do something new,” Barcenas and his three male teammates Barcenas said. “Besides being an athlete, I’ve hope to add more spirit to WHS basketball always liked the idea of expressing school spirit. games as the season progresses.

Jacob Sweetow Copy Editor

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whssports Volume 52 Issue 3

December 11, 2015

Upcoming Events Wrestling: Friday, Dec. 11 vs. Hersey.

Girls Basketball: Friday, Dec. 11 at Hersey.

Boys Swimming and Diving: Friday Dec. 11 at Prospect.

Boys Basketball: Tuesday, Dec. 15 vs. Conant.

Wheeling basketball turning a new page with coaching and youth Boys Basketball

Girls Basketball

Jean Pabon

TJ Best, junior, looks for an open man vs. Buffalo Grove Dec. 4. The Wildcats are 3-4 overall, including a win over Niles West, a team ranked in the Illinois preseason top 25.

Zalman Faltushanskiy Assistant Sports Editor The Wheeling boys basketball team (3-4 at press time) is off to a strong start under the direction of Michael O’Keeffe, first-year head coach. The team boasts a second place finish in the Northridge Prep tournament and a win over Niles West, a team ranked in the Illinois preseason top 25.

“In summer camp, we focused on skill development, fundamentals, and our new offense,” O’Keeffe said. “Our offense focuses on getting up and down the floor to create early scoring opportunities in transition before the defense is set.”

To go along with a revamped offense, Coach O’Keeffe preaches positive energy in practices and in games as a result of his own youth.

“Our practices are high-energy, upbeat, and positive. I think the positive energy has been helping the team,” O’Keeffe said. “I know exactly what it was like to be a student-athlete.

I can relate to the kids, but we still coach them hard.”

Through his prior positions at Wheeling as an assistant coach at various levels, O’Keeffe was able to train all but one member of the current varsity squad at some point in their Wheeling careers.

“It was huge knowing the kids before I came here. It made the transition back to Wheeling easy on me and the players,” O’Keeffe said.

These relationships have allowed the players to buy into the team philosophy. According

to Nick Janulis, senior, the changes that O’Keeffe has instituted have made Wheeling a more competitive program.

“Listening to him during practice, you would never think he was [one of ] the youngest varsity coach[es] in the state,” Janulis said. “He knows what he’s doing and brought a great system to Wheeling that will bring us a lot of success.”

One of the keys to Wheeling’s offense this year is the return of 6’9” center Patrick Szpir, senior. He leads an experienced frontcourt of Janulis, Ryan Caulfield, and Dylan Draka, seniors. Rounding out the team is a relatively young backcourt in Jalen Dennis, John Kappel, and TJ Best, juniors, along with Charlie Zettek and Peter Allen-Scheutz, seniors. According to Szpir, input from all players will be key to sustained success.

“I think our contribution is coming from all over the place. I think some people need to realize how important they are to the team whether they are number 1 or number 17, and that would help with their confidence,” Szpir said.

With all of the changes in place, the team has lofty aspirations that they believe they will be able to reach.

“I think we can definitely compete for an MSL championship, that’s our long-term goal,” O’Keeffe said. “This is the most talent Wheeling has had in a long time.”

For Janulis, winning would mean sending a message about WHS as a whole.

“Playing for Wheeling basketball is a great opportunity to prove to the rest of the area that Wheeling athletics are the real deal,” Janulis said.

Shannon Kennedy, junior, shoots a three-pointer vs. Buffalo Grove Dec. 4. “Our team philosophy this year is to play as a complete team,” Melissa Claver, junior, said.

Zalman Faltushanskiy Assistant Sports Editor After the departure of four starters, the Wheeling girls basketball team (2-5 at press time) is in the midst of a rebuild centered around strong teamwork and togetherness.

“Our philosophy is team basketball,” Matthew Weber, head coach, said. “We want to work together, play high-energy basketball, outhustle other teams, and rely on each other’s strengths. In practice, we work on activities to develop a high basketball IQ, which involves a lot of scrimmaging to reenact game-like situations.”

In his second year as head coach, Weber has focused on changes revolving around his new players. With only two seniors remaining from last year’s squad, quality leadership has been critical to player development.

“We want to develop around personnel, so we adapted to the players we currently have,” Weber said. “We have leaders that are juniors, we have leaders who are sophomores, and we have leaders who are seniors. Leadership has no age.”

For Melissa Claver, junior and second-year starter, Weber’s coaching has helped the team grow.

“Coach Weber is doing an amazing job coaching. He knows all of us better than we even know ourselves and it really helps us on the court,” Claver said. “I have such a close relationship with Weber that I’m not scared to say or ask anything in order to make the team more complete and act as one.”

According to Claver, guidance from

Jean Pabon

Michaela Vasey and Daniella Pierini, seniors, has steered the team in the right direction.

“The two seniors we have, Daniella and Michaela, help the team a lot. We have a fairly young team in general and having a few seniors that really know what they are talking about has been really important,” Claver said.

Claver, a 5’10” forward, is the leading scorer on the team, averaging 11.7 points per game. She, along with Vasey, leads a frontcourt including Shannon Kennedy and Kourtney Schuetz, juniors, along with Nosa Igiehon, freshman. The backcourt consists of Nansy Velev and Olivia Walker, sophomores, and Coco Yoshino, junior. According to Weber, the youth of this year’s team leaves room for improvement over the course of the season and in the future.

“Our goals are to become better basketball players, learn about each other, be a better team, and learn how to deal with adversity,” Weber said. “We’ve already faced some adversity, so we had to learn from it and move on.”

The togetherness that Weber preaches in practice has made a deep impact on the players.

“We need to be there for each other physically and mentally, at any point on or off the court. If we play together as a team in everything we do, it will be fun to be a part of and watch,” Claver said.

For Weber, the opportunity to serve as a head coach for a Wheeling varsity team has been a personal joy.

“It’s a great honor to be able to lead a program,” Weber said.

Where are your WHS senior athletes getting recruited?

Justin Loquercio Cross Country

Nate Reiff Water Polo

* officially committed

Argelia Diaz Water Polo

Cincinnati, Dayton, Miami (OH), Texas, UIC, Missouri

US Naval Academy, University of the Pacific, Wagner College, Bucknell

Brown University

Dylan Draka Football

Alex Khatcherian* Baseball

Patrick Szpir* Basketball

Oklahoma State University

Nick Janulis Soccer

University of Chicago, Knox College, Illinois Wesleyan

Christie Ambrose Softball

Christian Hubbard* Baseball

Andrea Sennett Wrestling

Jake Noel Swimming

Northern Illinois, Western Michigan

Michaela Vasey Track and Field

Benedictine University

North Central College

McKendree University

Chicago State University

University of Chicago

University of Tampa, South Dakota State University

Information compiled by Zalman Faltushanskiy, Jean Pabon, Patrick Ryan, and Jacob Sweetow