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news: Teachers discuss grade system forum: Should the red ID policy apply to AP students?
spokesman School board officials visit WHS pg. 6-7
Artist of the Month, pg. 3
Volume 49 Issue 6
index
Wheeling High School
900 S. Elmhurst Rd.
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March 20, 2013
Wheeling, Ill. 60090
Dr. Lopez awarded Principal of the Year
Rosalie Chan To prepare for the Real World Design Challenge (RWDC) nationals, Natalie Uriostegui, junior, Lizzie Jassin, Kaitlyn DeBusk and Christopher Olszewski, seniors, Jose Garcia Urrutia, junior, and Lisa del Muro, science teacher, have a conference call with Patrick Coronado, head of the Direct Readout Laboratory at Goddard Space Flight Center, to ask him questions.
Engineering contestants advance to nationals, plan to travel to D.C.
Rosalie Chan
web editor
Frida Valdés feature editor A team of WHS students who designed an unmanned aircraft system won the Illinois State-level Real World Design Challenge (RWDC) on Jan. 18, which qualified them for nationals in Washington, D.C. On April 19 to 22, the team will travel to Washington, D.C. for free to compete in nationals. If WHS’s group wins, the members will meet President Barack Obama and possibly win scholarships. “I’m very excited to be going to D.C. The kids will do a good job. I’m nervous,” Lisa del Muro, science teacher, said. “It was a significant body of work.”
Ms. del Muro recruited students to participate in the aviation challenge for RWDC, which they work on outside of school. They prepared for this since the beginning of the school year. They met every two weeks, where they had to create a virtual aircraft system that can search for an immobilized child during the day within a two-mile radius. The team had to outfit the aircraft with cameras and optimize the cost of the mission and time. Christopher Olszewski, senior, designed the plane, and Kaitlyn DeBusk and Lizzie Jassin, seniors, chose the camera equipment. Natalie Uriostegui and Jose Garcia Urrutia, juniors, will help with the presentation for nationals. Jassin will not attend nationals due to her role in the musical.
For nationals, the team will redesign the plane for more efficiency and will have to take into account more difficulties to the challenge given, such as trees added to the radius. In addition, because of DeBusk’s knowledge on aircrafts, WHS’s group plans on creating a 3-D model and making a video of it. “Right now, the RWDC gave us something we had to do to improve the flight pattern. We have to modify the drone to make it a best fit for the area,” DeBusk said. “It’s nice to see the hard work come through.” According to Olszewski, working on this project has helped him realize the difficulties of engineering. “It’s not as easy as it’s all cut out to be,” Olszewski said. “Teamwork is key. If it wasn’t for people in the
group, I don’t think anyone could do it by themselves.” For State, the group created an 80-page document that included every design aspect needed for the aircraft system. Members of the team did research and once stayed at school until midnight in order to complete the document. “I was very shocked (when the team won state), I didn’t think we’d make it. I don’t see any reason why we can’t win nationals,” Olszewski said. WHS also participated in this challenge last year, and they placed second. Only the first place team qualifies to travel to D.C. “It’s a great achievement because last year we almost made it. It’s exciting because it’s only our second year doing it,” DeBusk said.
Frida Valdés Dr. Lazaro Lopez, principal, talks to a representative during a tour of WHS. The tour included the engineering room, the health laboratory and specialized manufacturing equipment.
Megan Jones editor-in-chief Dr. Lazaro Lopez, principal, has been named the 2013-14 High School Principal of the Year by Horace Mann and the Illinois Principals Association. The award recognizes principals who have demonstrated a “positive impact on their students and learning community.” “I’m humbled and appreciative, and in every respect I acknowledge that it is a reflection of the collective efforts our of students, staff and community,” Dr. Lopez said. “I am driven and dedicated to providing the absolute best student experience that leads each one to their future.” Dr. Lopez is currently serving his sixth year as principal at WHS and led the effort of a “Stem for
ALL” initiative, which provides students of all ability levels access to “21st century skills” problem solving, teamwork, scientific inquiry, technology and communication within curriculum. “He has inducted magnificent programs and his style of bringing partners and the community in to help with education is just amazing,” Bill Dussling, District 214 board member, said. During Dr. Lopez’s tenure, WHS has recorded the highest ACT scores in history of the school and an 80% growth in Advanced Placement participation. WHS is also a model STEM school. “Dr. Lopez sponsors almost every activity that he can. He incorporates all of Wheeling’s groups into his priorities, which allows for many aspects of the school to be bettered,” Dan Crabbe, senior, said.
Wheeling town center in development, promises theater, shops Megan Jones
editor-in-chief Teens of WHS will have a new hangout zone in 2014, as a new development rises to Wheeling. The proposed town center will include retail buildings, an apartment complex and a movie theater. The shovels have yet to hit the dirt though, as the Village of Wheeling and developers Urban R2, struggle with an agreed term sheet. Urban R2 was given a deadline of March 15. Results were not know by press time. If they agree, construction will begin this summer. The proposed theater company is based in Texas and the Wheeling theater would be their first in Illinois. Brad Friedman, Executive Vice President from Urban R2, compared the
theater to Rosement’s Muvico theater. “While the theater company will show new movies, they differ from traditional theaters by premiering independent films and hosting community events,” Friedman said. Trustees asked the developers if the theater company could add a stage into the theater where plays and musical performances could be hosted. The town center will be built to the west of village hall and the Wheeling Park District, which was previously home to a Wickes furniture store that was torn down two years ago, leaving the land vacant for redevelopment. Community events and festivals could also take place outside the theater with a greenway located between retail buildings.
Image from the Village of Wheeling Above is an artist’s picture of the Wheeling Town Center, which will be built by 2014. The current rendering plans feature a pedestrain-friendly entertainment center with a movie theater and multiple retail shops along with 300 units of rental housing.
news
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spokesman
March 20, 2013
news Operation Snowball plans, hosts post-prom flash Chris Nush
asst. a&e editor
Michael Onyszczak, junior, qualified for the National Forensics League (NFL) Tournament in U.S. Extemporaneous Speaking on March 2 at Huntley High School. In June, he will travel to Birmingham, Ala. to compete at the NFL Tournament.
This year, Operation Snowball will host PostProm for the first time. Prom will take place May 31 at the Lincolnshire Marriott. Post-Prom will take place in the same room as the dance. “There’s a stigma that things happen after prom that students might engage
in at risk behavior, and it’s that mentality that it’s their last night being a high school student so they can do it and get away with it because it’s been done in the past, so we’re trying to get away from that,” Raymundo Galarza, Operation Snowball adviser, said. The students in Operation Snowball came up with all the activities for PostProm, which include karaoke, Kinect video games a
motivational speaker and goodie bags. “It feels great to know that you are making a difference,” Maria Castillo, senior and Operation Snowball director, said. “I really wanted to impact people. My inspiration was Brittany Racky (‘12 graduate). She was in Operation Snowball, and I could see how much she impacted me, and I wanted to do the same.” Students came up with
about 50 activities and narrowed it down to ten, which they presented to Dr. Lazaro Lopez, principal. “I like to be able to make a difference in people’s lives, and I feel like Snowball is a good way to go about doing it,” Stephanie Rivo, senior, said. “I like the goal of Snowball, and I think Prom is actually a pretty solid target in order to prevent drugs and alcohol use because a lot of stuff
happens.” The theme of prom has not been announced and is being kept a secret, according to Kristen Chico, junior class board sponsor. “Hey, this is prom; it’s meant to be fun. Let’s engage in some great activities that you guys are gonna enjoy doing. And, oh, by the way, you’re not doing them while using alcohol, drugs, or tobacco,” Mr. Galarza said.
Team wins ‘Best App in State,’ qualifies for nationals Megan Provost
Quarter 3 finals will take place March 21 and 22. Spring break will take place next week, from March 24 to 30. There will be no gym access after 12:30 p.m. each day due to painting. Fourth quarter begins April 1. Students should pick up schedules before school in the field house. For Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA)’s fashion competition, Jess Musto, senior, won most outstanding and will go to State. Faye Tsogas and Rosa Tejeda, juniors, won blue ribbon and will go to State. Jennifer Rivera, senior, and Sam Hoffman, junior, won second place. Relay for Life will take place May 4. Teams can currently sign up on Wheeling’s Relay For Life page, <www. relayforlife.org>. Scan the barcode below to go onto the website.
asst. focus editor After winning “Best App in State” in the Verizon Wireless Innovative App Challenge, a team of five juniors from WHS will move on to nationals. The contest requires the team to develop an app that addresses a real-world problem in their community and can be solved using the STEM principles: brainstorming, logical thinking and research. Kate Weber, pre-calculus teacher, discovered the contest by chance on an internet advertisement. She then introduced the project to all of her classes, and found interest in Skyler McLenahan, Kamila Sikova, Gosia Markiewicz, Jessica Mamalio and Pranati Mondkar, juniors, in her pre-calculus class. “The aspect I liked most is it’s a real-world application,” Sikova said. The team has worked on its app since winter break and finished Jan. 18. After winning Best in State, the team received an award from Dr. Lazaro Lopez, principal, for the accomplishment. Their app, entitled “Cookbook Quest”, was designed to address childhood obesity because it “targets and impacts the greatest amount of people”. “They thought really big, then narrowed down their
Taken from YouTube Above: Pranati Mondkar, junior, is featured in a YouTube clip of the WHS team’s Verizon App Challenge, called “CookBookQuest.” Inset: Scan the bar code to access the YouTube video.
ideas,” Weber said. “I was totally amazed at the ideas they came up with and how they fed off each other.” According to the team, the brainstorm was the longest and most challenging component of the development process. “When you’re using an app, you don’t realize how much goes into it,”
Math Team: Math team will go to State on May 4 at the University of Illinois in UrbanaChampaign. Regionals took place on Feb. 23 at Stevenson High School. The sophomore, junior and senior teams placed third.
Rosalie Chan
DECA: DECA competed at State on March 7 to 9 in Decatur, Ill. Out of about 1,200 students in the state, six WHS students won top 10 awards.
on f and follow
Crucial Step Clique (CSC): CSC competed at nationals on March 16 in Nashville, Tenn. Results were not available by press time.
on t
present their app in Florida this summer. In addition, each team member receives a personal tablet computer, and the school receives a $10,000 grant to go towards their STEM program. The team finds out if it made the Top 5 on March 18. Results were not available by press time.
Scotese to head student services
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ship and teamwork skills, as well as providing a real-life experience in how things are made. “It wasn’t a school project where each person was designated a part,” Markiewicz said. The top 5 apps in the nation will have their app made into an actual smartphone application and will
Clubs advance to state
Debate: Debate went to the Illinois Congressional Debate Association (ICDA) on Feb. 23. Polly Draganova, junior, and Zalman Falt, freshman, received second place speaker awards. The team competed at the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) competition on March 15 and 16 at Illinois Wesleyan University. Results were not available by press time.
Spokesman Online’
Mondkar said. According to all five group members, they could not have achieved their success without the help and guidance of Ms. Weber. “We were all the ideas, and she compiled everything into one big idea,” Mondkar said. According to Weber, the project taught good leader-
Information gathered by Erik Hernandez
web editor When Dr. Holly Ravitz, assistant principal for student services, retires this year, Tom Scotese, dean of students at Hersey, will assume the position. “He worked for me when he was a social worker, so I’m excited,” Dr. Ravitz said. “I think he will be a wonderful asset.” Mr. Scotese will assume his position on July 1. “I think it’s exciting for me because it (my new position) puts the three parts I did before together. There’s a good feeling about coming back to Wheeling,” Mr. Scotese said. “I know a lot of the staff and feel very fortunate. The student service staff is phenomenal.” Mr. Scotese knows how to speak Spanish and use sign language. He started his career in education as a special education teacher. He later started working at WHS as a social worker, and afterwards, he worked as a dean at Hersey High School for seven years. “He came with great assets of language,” Robert Sochowski, counselor, said. “He is an individual who is caring about students. He’s not just a leader; he’s also a teammate.” According to Erin DeLuga, associate
principal of instruction and curriculum, Mr. Scotese has an excellent reputation with staff, students and the district. “Because he has a social work background and a dean background, the combination of those two were an excellent skill set for the job of assistant principal,” Ms. DeLuga said. Mr. Scotese feels impressed with WHS’s gold seminar and STEM programs. “I’ve talked to specialists, and it’s a way for students to meet social workers in different areas,” Mr. Scotese said. “I’m excited to be part of the STEM programs and see how I can support them in student services.” Mr. Scotese believes that his previous experience will help him in his new position next year. “All of that experience helps, and I know about the culture of Wheeling. I’m happy to come home, and I look forward to working with staff and students here,” Mr. Scotese said. Mark Menich, school psychologist, has worked with Mr. Scotese, and he agrees. “He’s already been in an administrative position; he’s worked within student services; he’s taught within a classroom. He understands the ins-and-outs of of both regular and special education,” Mr. Menich said. “He goes the extra mile not only to help students but their families as well.”
arts
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spokesman
March 20, 2013
Daaawns find competitive edge
Left: Robert Perales, senior, and Melody Beltran, junior, perform their state qualifying duet, “Almost Never Clearly Obscure,” during their main Orchesis showcase, “We Have Arrived.” The duet was choreographed by Perales, who is a first year member on Orchesis. This marks the second consecutive year that WHS has qualified for the State Dance Festival in May at Maine West High School.
Hard work leads to first time placement in seven years
Megan Jones
Orchesis qualifies for state festival Used with permission by Lair The Daaawns compete at their first competition in El Paso, Ill. Maggie Monaxios, sophomore, Sam Hoffman, junior, and Lizzie Jassin, senior, lead The Daaawns to finals for the first time in seven years. The group performed 5 songs about overcoming adversity in their show, “Stand Up.”
Paige McCoy asst. feature editor
For the first time in seven years, The Daaawns have made their mark at a competitive level as they placed grand champions at Wheaton Warrenville, which is one of the biggest competitions in the midwest. They also placed first runner up at the Chicagoland Showcase and placed sixth in finals at the El Paso competition. “I think that placing well in our competitions is going to give us much more
confidence for next year,” Nisha Karwal, junior, said. This year, The Daaawns received a new director, Stephen Colella. Colella came to WHS with the goal of rebuilding the program to make it more competitive. “I’m so proud of them (The Daaawns) because they worked their butts off. I always told them it’s not about the trophy, it’s how they prepare. They know it, but they enjoy the trophy too,” Colella said. The Daaawns practiced every week for six or more hours from the beginning
of September. A typical rehearsal consisted of rehearsing vocally for about an hour and a half. The rest of the time would be spent dancing. “Everyone was committed to practice because they knew it was the foundation to get better,” Tegan Reschke, junior, said. Next year, The Daaawns will compete in an open division. It will allow The Daaawns to compete against some of the best show choirs in the nation including Buffalo Grove’s Expressions and Wheaton Warrenville’s Classics.
Chris Nush asst. a&e editor
“Almost Never Clearly Obscure,” a dance piece choreographed by Robert Perales, senior, has been selected for the Illinois State High School Dance Festival. Perales and Melody Beltran, junior, performed, the piece at the Orchesis Main Showcase, “We Have Arrived.” “It’s completely amazing and shocking to have been selected for State,” Perales said. “I know that my partner, Melody, and I have worked incredibly hard, but I didn’t know we would see this much success.” This has been both Pera-
Artist of the Month
les and Beltran’s first year in Orchesis. “Its really crazy, its my first year so I didn’t think that I would be able to do anything like this especially since I didn’t think I’d be chosen to do the duet with Robert because he’s so talented,” Beltran said. “It’s just really surreal and its really cool that they chose us to do this.” According to Perales, the piece is about the inability to love. “In the piece, I portray a character that turns to drugs and alcohol as a way to escape, but by doing so he hurts his partner. This dance symbolizes the pain that results from two people who can no longer love each other,” Perales said.
“Melody knew from the start that this story meant a lot to me, and over time, I think it meant a lot to her too.” According to Perales, developing the dance came naturally, which allowed him to venture off into new territory in terms of choreography. “I’m really proud of whatever the kids do,” Diane Rawlinson, Orchesis director, said. “Often at the State level they don’t select really small group pieces so to have two small groups selected at the State level is pretty exciting.” The Illinois State High School Dance Festival will be held May 11 at Maine West High School in Des Plaines, Ill.
‘Legally Blonde’ modernizes plot
Directors cut inappropriate content
Lemus prepares for college through art program nis, art teacher, Lemus displays a strong desire and a&e editor work ethic. Throughout WHS, the “Lemus definitely has a art department plays a piv- lot of artistic skills and talotal role in the dynamic of ents,” Sianis said. “Her work the student culture. To en- is very unique. She takes sure that there is the same every project that’s given to amount of recognition in her and really makes it her the WHS art departown. I think its ment as there is in pretty incredmany of our sports ible that she and core academic is so self diclasses, Spokesrected. Nikki man has decided to is the type list an artist of the of girl who Nikki produces month as students creates opbright colors and from WHS continue portunities organic shapes. for herself to to embark on producing new artistic Her personality is become the seen all through- best she can pieces of work. This month’s out her artwork.” be.” artist of the month, Lemus Nikki Lemus, seis currently Katlyn nior, is currently working on O’Donnell, working on a new new pieces senior piece of work as she of art and prepares to finalize plans to maher last few months jor in Educaas an Advanced Art student tion with an emphasis on at WHS. Art during her time in Col“WHS has allowed me lege. to surround myself with “I started taking art groups of people that share classes my sophomore my passion. It has also ex- year,” Lemus said. “Ever posed me to a lot of new me- since I was little, I’ve always diums that are fairly expen- loved to paint, and as I’ve sive that I normally don’t grown older, I’ve been exhave access to,” Lemus said. posed to more elements of According to Eleni Sia- art that I love.
Robert Perales
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Used with permission by Nikki Lemus An elephant created by Nikki Lemus, senior. The image consists of a wide array of colors, which Lemus heavily focuses on in order to express her dynamic personality. See the photo in color online at <www.wheelingspokesman.com>.
Megan Jones editor-in-chief
The production of “Legally Blonde: The Musical” will hit the stage on April 18 and features an edgy modern plot line, so modern that some pieces were cut to keep the plot school-appropriate. “The content and jokes are very current. We picked it because the rights for the play just came out; its really popular so we know it will bring a big audience because it’s so modern,” Stephen Colella, choir teacher, said. “We’ve cut it down because some of the lines and songs are not appropriate for a high school stage. Mrs. (Jennifer) Zorn (director) and I went through saying we can get away with this, but we can’t get away with that.” Lizzie Jassin, senior, thinks it is good that pieces were cut. “The cuts make the musical much more inspirational and serious. Some parts, like the ending of the broadway musical, weren’t sending the best message,” Jassin said. According to Meghan Ausnehmer, senior, the play holds a traditional message that most musi-
cals bring, but it is shown in a much more edgy way and more racy than past musicals. “The play is a little more promiscuous than what we’ve had in the past. It’s such a huge contrast from what we did last year: Beauty and the Beast. It’ll definitely draw a modern crowd, and we expect a lot of people to come. Many people love the movie,” Ausnehmer said. Ms. Zorn believes the musical is different because most of the story is told in songs, so there is very little dialogue. According to Ausnehmer, directors expanded into recruiting more males in the musical by talking to coaches in athletics. “We’ve gotten a lot more new members to our cast, and we’ve expanded. We always try to gain boys, but this year we’ve specifically been working around athletic schedules so that they can receive the experience of a musical,” Ausnehmer said. Jassin was excited to work with Mr. Colella because he said he would “push her.” “He told me not to be broadway’s Elle Woods, but Lizzie’s Elle Woods,” Jassin said.
feature
Jean Pabon staff reporter The following students currently train physically and mentally for the safety of their families, communities and country. With the determination to be something greater, students at WHS pursue careers in the military field. According to Jeff Morse, Lt. Cmdr. and senior naval science instructor, “the military looks for is leadership, initiative and ingenuity.”
Military Academy
“When I look at how fortunate I have been thus far in my life to be a part of such a strong, supportive family and an equally supportive community, I realize more and more how it is now becoming his turn to give back to this country,” Mike Yoshino, senior said. Yoshino plans to enroll into the United States Military Academy at West Point. When he graduates from West Point, he will receive a five-year commission as a U.S. Army Officer. As of now, he does not know which branch he wants to go into. Being commissioned from West Point makes one a second lieutenant in the Army to serve for five years on active duty.
Navy
Cameron Decoursey, senior,
4 plans on going to the U.S. Naval Academy and enlist in SEALs. The U.S. Naval Academy is a four year college with built-in training, where all of the graduates commission as officers in the Navy or Marine Corps. At the academy, Decoursey hopes to study aeronautical or astronautical engineering. Decoursey has discussed joining the military his parents. They have all been supportive, but his mom is the most wary. “My dad was on board with it from the beginning. My mom needed a bit of convincing because she is worried for my safety, but I think she has come around,” Decoursey said. What ignited Decoursey’s desire to join the military was to become something greater than himself. “The patriotic aspect of it is what appeals to me the most; I couldn’t think of a better way to protect our country,” Decoursey said.
Air Force
According to Alberto Vazquez, senior, he wanted to join the air force for as long as he can remember. “I’ve wanted to do it for (the) travel benefits, getting to meet new people and (the) life experience,” Vazquez said. Vazquez’s parents felt hesistant about his decision to join the air force, especially his mom.
spokesman
March 20, 2013
“I’ve talked to my mom. She understands, but still, she’s nervous about it,” Vazquez said. After being in the military, Vazquez aims to major in criminal justice in order to become a police officer. Keungsack (Jay) Chaisri, senior, wants to enroll into the air force to work in a mechanical career for the college benefits. To prepare for his career in computers, Chaisri has taken a computer repair course and Cisco networking.
Army
Joseph Barry, junior, aims to join the the army and has always had an interest in a career that involves protecting friends and family. He plans to go into criminal justice or a medical career. “I want to achieve as much as I can, serve my country and serve the army to the best of my abilities,” Barry said. “This way, I’ll be able to help and defend all the people I love.” Barry is part of WHS’s Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) and previously participated in Army ROTC. According to Barry, serving his country is a great honor and he would be willing to go to war if he had to. One thing that pushes him to join the army is “just the thought of my friends and family being safe,” Barry said.
Used with permission by Mike Yoshino Top: Members of the Military Academy walk at West Point during one of the visits of Mike Yoshino. Bottom: West Point Academy located in New York.
Marines
Brandon Zaremba, senior, does physical training every Thursdays and participates in monthly meetings at a recruiting center in Prospect Hts., in hopes
of joining the Marines and following his family’s footsteps Zaremba enlisted himself, aware of the dangers he might have to face during war, and although his parents worry, they fully sup-
port him. “My great grandfather was in the Navy, my grandfather was a cop and my father was in the Air Force,” Zaremba said. “I’ll go for the pride of my country.”
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feature
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spokesman
March 20, 2013
WHS alumnus interns at White House Frida Valdés
Aide Hernandez John Dini, senior, unstacks avocado bean salad in a cup and places the contents on a plate.
Pro-start hosts food contest Katia Bryhadyr
staff reporter WHS held its first ProStart cooking contest during block C-2 Friday, March 8. Students were faced with the challenge of creating a main dish and a side to match the National School Lunch Program. While the 10 members of the Pro-Start class prepared dishes, Student Council’s Executive Board judged the school program standards. Hector Juarez, senior, received the award for his
burrito and spinach dish. He received an iPod Classic and a chance for his dish to be served in the school cafeteria. “The tricky part or the challenge about this is that the students have a cost limit,” Jennifer Cederberg, career and technical education teacher said. “They could only spend $1.50 of unit cost.” According to Juarez, because he pursues a career as a chef, he valued this authentic experience. “We had a budget, a time
limit and rules; it felt so real,”Juarez said. Students needed to have at least two ounces of protein on the main dish and the side should be a vegetable. Maureen Mullane, food service supervisor of WHS, came up with the idea of doing a cooking contest. According to Mullane, she was inspired by First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Get Moving” Act, which requires students to have a certain amount of healthy food on their plate.
feature editor Lindsay Ford, ‘09 WHS alumni and senior at DePaul University, currently interns at the White House, working in the Internship Office under the Office of Management and Administration. According to Sandra Chico, social studies teacher, Ford’s communication skills, organization skills, dedication and commitment are attributes that can give her an advantage to become successful. While at WHS, Ford participated in many extracurricular activities, but she attributes Student Council with “instilling my passion for working in public service. Ms. Chico was a great mentor and taught me important organizational and time management skills,” Ford said in an email interview. According to Margaret Christiansen, ESL teacher, when she was assistant Student Council coordinator, Ford always did more than she was expected and was willing to do anything in order to make the event successful. “Kids that don’t have to work real hard don’t learn how to work when they
have to and other people that have had to work a little bit harder. It just becomes part of their nature, they know how to tackle a project, how to succeed in whatever they want do,” Mrs. Christiansen said. In college, Ford held executive board positions in four hospitality industry clubs and co-founded one. “I believe being involved outside of school is imperative in order to be a well-rounded person,” Ford said. Ford was on Student Council’s executive board in high school, where her passion began. She became interested in organizing events, communicating with other students and motivating them, and making them the best they could be. “I hope for her the same things I hope for all of my students and that’s for them to find where they’re happy at and good at and when you do that it doesn’t feel like a job,” Ms. Chico said. According to Ford, applying for the internship was similar to applying for a college, and even though it was competitive, she decided to apply. “I am very honored to
have been selected as a White House Intern. The experiences and skills I have gained so far have been invaluable,” Ford said. Ford programs intern classes, informs applicants about the program, coordinates Weekly Speaker Series and Professional Development Series for the intern class and manages three teams of interns who volunteer at service sites around Washington D.C. “One day I may be responding to emails from applicants for future internship positions and coordinating the weekly speaker series. Another day, I may be giving tours of the East Wing and holding an informational video teleconference with a university or college on applying to the Internship Program,” Ford said. Ford plans on turning her passions for event management and public service into a career and work in event management. “It’s been amazing to meet so many different dedicated and passionate people from all over the U.S. I think it’s extremely important to give back to the local community,” Ford said.
‘Spider Gym’ offers students alternatives, training Rosalie Chan
web editor Donned in white martial arts robes, the Brazilian jiu-jitsu students watch as the instructor demonstrates the guard position with Isaac Reyes, ‘10 graduate and sophomore at Harper. Lying on the ground, the instructor cross his legs behind the Reyes’s back, preventing him from moving. Reyes goes back to the outside circle as the instructor demonstrates the move again with another student. Then, the students pair up to practice on the mats. Jose del Real, senior, and his partner decide to step into the cage to practice. Reyes and del Real go to Spider Gym on Wheeling Road to practice mixed martial arts (MMA). Spider Gym offers MMA classes, such as Brazilian jiu-jitsu, kickboxing and muay thai. MMA is a mix of different martial arts, such as boxing, jiu-jitsu, muay thai, karate and kung-fu and fighters can use different styles during matches. “I really like the discipline you get out of it. You become a much more humble person,” del Real said. “I also like the mental strategy; it’s like a game of human chess. I like the aspect of how to makes you think,” del Real said. Del Real started going to Spider Gym due to the proximity to his house. “It (MMA) got me in good shape and showed me a lot of self-defense. Once you start learning moves, you just want to keep learning and getting better.” Del Real originally started with boxing and then became interested in MMA. “My parents wanted to put me in some kind of activity or after school program. I told them I wanted to do boxing. Then,
when I would do MMA classes, I would get beat up because I didn’t know muay thai or jiu-jitsu, so I wanted to learn more so I could be a well-rounded fighter,” del Real said. According to Junko Suzuki, manager, MMA has various benefits. “It benefits you if you want to be a good fighter. For common people, it’s good selfdefense,” Suzuki said. Maribel Aguilar, senior, has also become involved at Spider Gym, working at the front desk. She participated in boxing, but currently cannot due to an injury. “My injury kind of led me to the place. One of the people who I was training with said I should come, and I watched. The owner said you should work here. He lets me hit bags. Once I fully recover, I plan on taking classes, hopefully competing,” Aguilar said. Aguilar hopes that Spider Gym can help out the community in other ways. “I was talking to the owner. We’re interested in opening up the gym for kids who are troubled to be disciplined instead of going on the streets,” Aguilar said. Like Aguilar, Reyes participated in boxing club while he attended WHS. This helped motivate him to join Spider Gym. He currently works out there and practices MMA. Reyes started with Brazilian jiu-jitsu two years ago. “I knew my hands were okay. I knew how to take a punch. I knew how to parry and bob and duck and weave. That gave me confidence, knowing that I had a bit of a boxing background,” Reyes said. Many people who work out in the gym compete in MMA competitions. On March 9, Reyes won his first amateur MMA fight, which took place in Sandwich, Ill.
Rosalie Chan Top: Jose del Real, senior, and Isaac Reyes, ‘10 graduate and sophomore at Harper College, and other Brazilian jiu-jitsu watch as the instructor demonstrates the guard position. They attend Brazilian jiu-jitsu classes at Spider Gym on Wheeling Road. Bottom: Del Real practices the guard position at Brazilian jiu-jitsu class.
“It was my first amateur MMA, and I won. I couldn’t believe it. It was a dream come true. I’ve always struggled with sports. I guess I worked hard on it,” Reyes said. Reyes started training for fights three months ago. “My favorite part is that you can get a knockout or submission. A little guy can beat a big guy with jiu-jitsu. A big guy can be strong, but a little guy can win if he has good technique,” Reyes said. Del Real has competed in a tournament and won first place. He plans to start competing cross country in the summer. “Sometimes you expect to get better overnight. It feels like you don’t know anything, but one day at a time, you have to be persistent,” del Real said. Rosalie Chan
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March 20, 2013
BIG IMPACTS,
SCALE
4 Stations of Nanotech
Station 1: 3-D Optical Microscope With the optical microscope tool, scientists can magnify objects, such as this fly eye to an incredibly small scale. The optical microscope is the most basic tool used by scientists. STR Partners Seen above, features a computerized image of the future nanotechnology lab, which will be located on the upper level of WHS in room 207. The lab will feature multiple equipment pieces and allows for “Introduction to Nanotechnology,” a senior science elective class, which will be taught by Lisa del Muro, physics teacher.
Megan Jones editor-in-chief
Station 2: Scanning Electron Microscope With this microscope, objects can be observed at high resolutions like the piece of mold featured above. This scope is mostly used in biology to observe minerals.
Station 3: Scanning Electron Microscope This microscope, also known as SEM, is used to do elemental analysis. It uses electrons instead of lights to produce images.
Station 4: Scanning Tunneling Microscope Also known as STM, this microscope gives scientists a clear cut image at an atomic resolution imaging level. The above photo is a nanoscale view of a bluray disk. Photos used with permission by Nanoscience Instruments
Nanotechnology, a science in its infancy, will allow WHS students to be on the cutting edge and have an advantage among others as they work with equipment and technology within WHS’s nanotechnology laboratory, the first public high school research and development nanolab in the country. As part of an “Introduction to Nanotechnology,” senior science elective class, students will have the ability to participate in authentic research and use equipment similar to manufacturers in the area. “WHS is a leader in STEM education in the country, and I want our students to be the researchers, discoverers and the world’s change makers,” Dr. Lazaro Lopez, principal, said. “This lab provides another venue to set our students apart and to inspire other schools to reach beyond what they thought was possible.” Many colleges do not allow their students to work with nanotechnology equipment until they have reached a graduate level due to high equipment expenses. “This will be the first nanotechnology high school lab in the country. I hope it will bring opportunities for students to utilize equipment and make them more marketable when looking for a manufacturing job or entering a field of science in college,” Nancy Heintz, science division head, said. Students enrolled in the nanotechnology class will have the opportunity to produce research with Lisa del Muro, nanotechnology teacher. She will have a free period specifically for students to meet with her on various competitions. “Dr. Lopez steered WHS into the nanotechnology pathway
and is a great leader for doing so. It provides an opportunity for students to be the first to work within the field,” Mrs. del Muro said. Some manufacturers do not have all the nanotechnology equipment, so WHS will offer them the ability to come and use its equipment (for a fee). According to Ms. del Muro, with manufacturers already in the building, students can build a relationship and form networks before they even graduate. WHS currently looks into a dual credit with a community college to allow students more opportunities. The laboratory will be located on the second floor of WHS in room 207. The program is currently bidding on equipment for the nanotechnology lab such as an atomic force microscope. 30 seniors are currently enrolled in the class, which will be split into two sections to ensure students receive one-on-one time with the equipment. WHS is currently reaching out to community colleges, such as Oakton Community College and universities, such as the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, to build connections between programs. For instance, WHS could send students enrolled in the nanotechnology program to attend nanotechnology summer camps at U of I to build relationships. Both want to partner with WHS. “This lab will serve as an inspiration for our students, a skills development center for our community’s future scientist, transferable job skills upon graduation and a resource to our countless business partners and research institutions,” Dr. Lopez said. Construction on the lab will begin this summer. The lab will feature approximately eight stations of equipment.
WHAT IS
First nanotech lab gives WHS advantage in science Nanotechnology is science, engineering and technology conducted at the nanoscale, which is about 1 to 100 nanometers. How it was started: In 1959, Richard Feynman, a physicist described a process in which scientists would be able to manipulate and control individual atoms and molecules. It was not until 1981 when Professor Norio Taniguchi coined the term nanotechnology. On a real-life scale: One nanometer is a billionth of a meter, or 10^-9 of a meter. 25,400,000 nanometers in an inch one inch Newspaper
A sheet of newspaper is about 100,000 nanometers thick
On a comparative scale, a nanometer is to a marble as a marble to the earth.
Today’s scientists and engineers are finding a wide variety of ways to deliberately make materials at the nanoscale to take advantage of their enhanced properties such as higher strength, lighter weight, increased control of light spectrum, and greater chemical reactivity than their larger-scale counterparts.
Information from Nano.gov Infographic by Solinna Chong
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March 20, 2013
NSBA visits, observes, experiences technology integrated curriculums they are working together in order to develop a mastery of fundamental problems involved with energy,” Dan Weidner, physWith the full integration of technol- ics teacher said. “It’s a fairly normal day ogy, the National School Board Association of teaching and learning, just with people (NSBA) was invited to visit four District 214 there to observe and see what we are doschools on March 14 and 15 to observe how ing.” the schools use technology; WHS took this Along with the school tour, the represenopportunity to premiere the plans for the tatives will be greeted by Dr. Lazaro Lopez, future nanotechnology lab. principal, and Ms. DeLuga in the conferAccording to Erin DeLuga, associate ence room as an introduction to what they principal, the overall will experience throughout visit will put WHS and the day. There will also be Missed the event? the three other high Check out the broadcasted presena teacher and student panel schools, Elk Grove, tations, student-teacher question sharing their experience Prospect and Buffalo panels and more online at <www. with technology. Grove, on a national wheelingspokesman.com>. “I’m a bit nervous, but level. it’s cool just to have the “The visit will be able opportunity,” Eric Ruttento highlight WHS and give it recognition to berg, senior said. “I’m discussing QUEST the technology department and across con- research, and I’m excited to see what actutent areas. It will be a great spotlight for ally happens and hope I can represent WHS WHS and D214,” Ms. DeLuga said. well.” The visit will focus on classes and proOther students on the panel are Jack grams involved in engineering, medicine, Ferguson and Consuelo Gonzalez, seniors, science and broadcasting. Some of these and Kathy Castrejon, Nick Gross and Halprograms and classes that will be intro- ey Singer, juniors. Gross specifically spoke duced include AVID, Project Lead the Way, about joining the nanotechnology class the nanotechnology lab and the medical next year. classes and facility. The representatives held an overall con“My students will be working in groups ference in downtown Chicago along with in a collaborative learning model, in which the school visits.
Solinna Chong
associate editor
Solinna Chong Above: After presentations from Dr. Lazaro Lopez, principal and Erin DeLuga, associate principal, the NSBA representatives were split into groups to tour around the school. Nancy Heintz, science and math division head, presented a quick power point about the nanotechnology lab that will be installed into the science curriculum. Right: During the student question panel, Nick Gross, junior talks about how he signed up for the upcoming nanotechnology class, and how excited he is as to where WHS is heading. Rosalie Chan
Kristina Piamonte Dan Crabbe, senior, and Christian Galvan, junior, research information about the prosthetic limb that they and Anne Janulis, junior are working for the Positive Impact Challenge. Positive Impact is an engineering competition that is partnered up with Intel and HP. They present students with real-world problems and ask them to solve them.
How will the new nanotechnology lab benefit students and the school? “It’ll enhance our science and math program and make more people aware of nanotechnology.”
Eric Tint, junior
CHALLENGE CHALLENGE CHALLENGE NUMBER 3 NUMBER 2 NUMBER 1
Positive Impact, a high school competition, was presented real-world problems to work on. The students started the challenge in early November and will end in mid-April. WHS will compete against other schools in hopes to win scholarship money and a personal tablet.
Design a hospital room that prevents and reduces surgical infections. Two teams from WHS works on this challenge. The first team includes Kat Dobrowski and Omar Joya, seniors and Cole Dammeier, sophomore. The second team includes Jordan Quiroz, senior and Phillip Cozariuc and Alex Pawelek, sophomores.
Create a prosthetic limb affordable in third-world countries. A WHS team consisting of Dan Crabbe, senior and Christian Galvan and Anne Janulis, juniors are building this.
Make a football helmet that prevents concussions. Unfortunately, there is no team from WHS working on this challenge. Information gathered by Megan Provost
“A lot more people will get a chance to go deeper into the science program here and get a head start in nanotechnology.”
Gloria Wide, freshman
“It (the nanotechnology lab) will help us expand our career opportunities and help our school be more advanced than other schools in the district.”
Oliwer Dobrydnio, senior
“We get an advantage that other schools [don’t] have, creating more opportunities for us to go deeper in our (science) classes.”
Domenica Montesinos, sophomore “Even if science isn’t a student’s favorite subject, it’s an opportunity like this that can make them fall in love with the class.”
Laura Wagner, English teacher Photo Opinion by Kristina Piamonte and Solinna Chong
la voz
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Marzo 20, 2013
Falta de involucramiento de padres en las vidas diarias de estudiantes PTO y Latino Family Nights tal vez trabajarán en equipo Perla Jimenez la voz editor Las Noches Latinas Familiares y la Organización de Padres y Maestros (PTO) siempre han trabajado separados, y con diferentes propósitos. Recientemente, Erin DeLuga, directora asociada, dijo que deberían trabajar juntos para poder acercar los padres a la escuela más y para se involucren más en las vidas de los estudiantes. “Los padres son las mejores personas para entender las necesidades emocionales de los estudiantes y como podemos hacer que los padres se sientan mejor informados,” la Sra. DeLuga dijo. De acuerdo a ella,
aunque no hay problemas en cómo las organizaciones trabajan actualmente, “sería ideal tener más gente contribuyendo desde el punto de vista de las Noches Latinas Familiares.” Kate Kraft, directora asociada de operaciones, dice que aunque sería grandioso tener la perspectiva de las Noches Latinas Familiares, reconoce que la barrera lingüística sería un obstáculo para algunos de los padres de ambos partidos. Bertha Sanchez, abogada estudiantil, dice que no cree que los padres Latinos estén listos para juntarse con el PTO. Hace tiempo, trabajó con Lazaro Lopez, director, y con la Sra. DeLuga para tratar de que algunos padres Latinos se
unieran al PTO. De acuerdo a ella, los únicos padres que tuvieron tiempo de asistir a la junta del PTO fueron tres mujeres, pero al llegar a la escuela y ver que no había ningún Latino en la junta, decidieron mejor irse a la casa. A pesar de esto, la Sra. Sanchez dijo que los padres Latinos han cambiado mucho desde que ella estaba involucrada en la escuela de sus hijos. “(Los Latinos) se sienten cómodos; (sienten) que esta es es su escuela. El Dr. Lopez y la Sra. Kraft los hizieron sentirse así,” la Sra. Sanchez dijo. “Tal vez en el futuro, podemos trabajar para cerrar esa brecha,” la Sra. Sanchez dijo.
Noches Familiares Latinas
Organización de Padres y Maestros
Enfóco: Dar oportunidades para que los Latinos en general salgan adelante
Enfóco: Apoyar a los estudiantes y maestros con dinero y otros recursos, juntar a los padres con la escuela
Actividades: Presentar temas importantes para la comunidad Latina
Noticias Internacionales: • Despues de la resignación del Papa Benedicto XVI , un papa nuevo ha sido elegido. Jorge Bergoglio, arzobispo de Buenos Aires, Argentina, será el primer papa latinoamericano. El nuevo papa, contrario a la tradición, elegió el nombre Francisco. Se esperan más noticias en como reacionará el pueblo Católico al papa nuevo.
Nuevos Recursos para los estudiantes: • La Coalición de Derechos para Inmigrantes y Refugiados (ICIRR) creeo un programa nuevo, con el cual los estudiantes sin recursos para pagar por la Acción Diferida pueden sacar préstamos y pagarlo en pagos mensuales de $20. • El estado de Illinois ha creado un fondo de recursos para becas estudiantiles. Con esto, los estudiantes indocumentados ahora tinen otra fuente de dinero para pagar por su educación universitaria • Para más información, visita la página web de ICIRR: <http://icirr.com/>
Gama aplica por Acción Diferida después de dos meses, es aprovada
Actividades: recaudar dinero para becas estudiantiles
Gama enfrenta obstáculos en camino hacia la ciudadanía; es de las primeras en ser aprovada y recibir tarjeta de identificaciío nacional
Rossy Peralta asst. la voz editor Cecilia Gama, senior, recibió su tarjeta de identificación en febrero. Gama fué uno de muchos estudiantes indocumentados quienes beneficiaron del DREAM Act. “(Con la tarjeta de identificacion) Puedo conseguir un trabajo y pagar mis (futuros) préstamos, si no consigo muchas becas, no tengo que vivir en deuda,” dijo Gama. El DREAM Act es un proyecto para estudiantes indocumentados criados y educados en los Estados Unidos. Unas de las cosas que la ley da es el permiso para trabajar legalmente, permiso para obtener una licencia e ir al colegio universitario. Para ser elegible para la tarjeta se debe haber entrado a los Estados Unidos antes de tener 16 años de edad, tener que haber viv-
ido en los Estados Unidos por cinco años consecutivos, haberse graduado de la escuela secundaria o haber sido aceptado a un colegio o universidad, tener entre 12 y 35 años de edad y tener un buen carácter moral. Gama tuvo la ayuda de un abogado, quien la guió en el proceso. Gama consultó un abogado porque no estaba segura de que hacer El 15 de agosto, estudiantes del Club Latino y Consejo Estudiantil ayudaron en la registration para el DREAM Act. Gama ayudó en la Acción Diferida, donde vió el proceso. Sandra Chico, maestra de ciencias sociales, fué uno de los adultos quién atendieron la Acción Diferida. En ese día, Chico se enteró que Gama iba a aplicar. En el proceso, Gama siguió en contacto con Chico sobre su progreso. Aunque Gama tenía la ayuda de un abogado, tuvo un momento de preocupa-
ción. Cuando Gama tuvo que tomar sus huellas dactilares, sólo siete de sus huellas trabajaron. Gama entregó su aplicación en diciembre. En enero 14, fué a las oficinas y en un mes, obtuvo su tarjeta de identificación. Gama fue una de las primeras en obtener la tarjeta en el estado de Illinois. “Yo estaba emocionada (en ser una de las primeras en obtener la tarjeta). Pensé que me mandaron otra letra para ir a la oficina otra vez,” dijo Gama. De acuerdo a Chico, cuando los estudiantes obtienen la tarjeta de identificación, los estudiantes pueden realizar cosas que no podían antes. “Con estas oportunidades disponibles, lo único que los pararía es ellos mismos. No hay obstáculos. Es la cuestión de la motivación (de los estudiantes) para tener éxito,” la Sra. Chico dijo.
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¡Tenemos Traducciones! Las traducciones están en la pagína web de Spokesman:
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entertainment
Tomb Raider reboot revives gaming standards
Ginza’s grand buffet
Robert Perales Every plot has its beginning and that’s exactly what the latest installment of the “Tomb Raider” series has. The 10th addition to the highly established franchise follows lead heroine, Lara Croft, and her origins as a tomb raider. Rather than extending the series, Crystal Dynamics, the creators of the Tomb Raider series, chose to create a long overdue reboot. The recreated storyline finds Croft stranded on an island alongside her crew. While on the island, Croft must gather food, maintain her health, defend herself from unknown entities, and must find a way for her and her crew members to leave the island safely. Right from the start, Lara’s limits are pushed and her emotions are immediately tested, which is undeniably one of the strongest elements of the game. Her real life characteristics illustrate and characterize Croft as a realistic figure, which was lacked through-
out most of the franchise‘s history. Other standout features of the videogame include enhanced visuals, strengthened action/combat scenes and an overall increase in plot line creations. The wide array of setting locations throughout the game, enhance the overall structure and establishment of the plot line. Establishing an eerie and scary feeling, almost complete darkness fills the game that are only illuminated by fragments of light created by a torch. Every plant, every person, every wound seems more realistic than any Tomb Raider game made due to Crystal Dynamics. In addition to the setting, the highly intense action sequences also keeps the gamer from losing interest. There isn’t a moment of boredom throughout the videogame; whether Croft is fighting off enemies, hunting for food or just bandaging up a wound, she always has a motive.
Croft’s actions also play a huge role as they seem more realistic. When she is wounded, she cannot complete as many actions as she normally would. She also takes matters into her own hands by taking cover when she nears close by objects. The extensive game play also plays a key role in the success of the game. The plot line contains unexpected twists and turns and even pushes Croft into a larger depressive state. The highly anticipated action/ adventure game, “Tomb Raider,” saw its release on March 5, 2013 to wide critical appraise and positive reviews. Tomb Raider is undoubtedly one of the strongest and refreshing games of the year. Tomb Raider sold over one million games within less than 48 hours of its release, thus making it one of the highest and fastest selling games of the year. The only problem Crystal Dynamics will encounter with the latest release of Tomb Raider will be producing a sequel that is just as refreshing and entertaining.
Solinna Chong Buffets are basically allyou-can-eat sanctuaries; you pay a single price and eat whatever you want. Now imagine an all-you-can-eat buffet, a full sushi bar and a supervised but also open bar. Yes, a place like this does exist, and it is located in Golf Mill. Ginza Steak, Seafood & Sushi Buffet opened its doors in early February. It is a new contemporary buffet with a cool, calming environment and serves a variety of Asian cuisines prepared fresh everyday. The buffet has more than 300 different dishes to choose from, over 50 different kinds of novelty sushi rolls, 40 different main entrees and more than 20 different cakes and desserts in both Asian and American styles.
Some dishes that I highly recommend are the steamed lobster, which is a whole lobster cooked to perfection and marinated in a butter lemon sauce; the New York steak, which is cooked in front of the customers so that every steak compliments that person’s taste; and the entire sushi bar. Also, from the desserts, I would recommend the chocolate eclairs or the vanilla cream puffs. Although the buffet seems too-good-to-be-true, there is a catch to such a nice, respectful place: cost, cost, cost! To dine at Ginza during lunch, adults are $12, children from 6-10 years are $7 and children from 3-5 years are $5. To dine during dinner time, adults cost $26, children from 6-10 years cost $13, children from 3-5 years cost $9 and children under 3 years are free. They also charge for drinks such as soda, juice, alcohol and so on. Even though Ginza is a nice place to dine, I would only recommend it for special occasions or for lunch, not for another Saturday night out with friends.
Picks of Month: March Selected and created by: Chris Nush
album:
movie:
Fans of Justin Timberlake’s past albums will love his third, “The 20/20 Experience.” According to Timberlake, there are elements of both past albums in addition to new material. The album includes the hit single, “Suit & Tie.”
Portia Nathan, an admissions officer at Princeton University, encounters a college-bound student who may be her son. “Admission” stars Tina Fey and Paul Rudd and was released on March 15.
event:
app:
Schools from all over District 214 competed in an intense competition where their robots fought to the death on March 8 and 9. Missed it? See Spokesman’s live broadcast at <shar.es/jSDAj> and let us know that you thought in the comment section.
“4 Pics 1 Word” is an app you will love if you enjoy word and logo games. Users guess a word based off of four pictures they see and attempt to complete a series of puzzles. The game currently sits in the top 10 of the iTunes app store.
RAMMY’S IS BOSS! 834 S. WHEELING ROAD Bring this coupon in for:
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forum
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March 20, 2013
editorial
Relay negatively interferes with AP testing
Relay For Life promises a fun overnight event with friends while being able to give back and raise money for cancer research. For the past four years, members of Spokesman have participated on a publication team. However, Relay’s event planning has a conflicting problem. Relay’s planned event for Saturday, May 4, conflicts with the upcoming week of Advanced Placement (AP) testing starting on Monday, May 6 and brings forward the issue of sleep schedules and distractions with test preparations. Spokesman is concerned with how pulling an all-nighter the weekend before tests will affect AP students. At 6 a.m., students hazily pack up their
sleeping bags and stum- ams in the classroom is ble across the football tied to sleep. field as they flee the By looking at brain school in hopes of find- responses of students ing a warm bed at home who do not get enough to sleep in for the rest of sleep, scientists have acthe day. In an ideal situ- curately predicted the ation, students should impact sleep loss has spend their time resting on their ability to and studying over pay attention the weekend. during the While leading course 7 out of 7 up to a large of a members of test, students day. Bethe editorial should maincause tain a cont h e board agree. sistent sleep College schedule of eight Board to nine hours of purposefulsleep each night. ly chooses hard AP students have questions in an attempt prepared all year for to trick students, a lack these tests. The ability of sleep can negatively to earn college credit impact a student’s score in high school provides on the multiple choice future benefits. Missing portion of the AP Test. sleep prevents concenUnfortunately, it is tration, and according not possible to catch up to the American Acad- on sleep in one long sesemy of Sleep Medicine sion. (AASM), success on exLast year, the event
took place on Saturday, May 19, which made the overnighter with friends even more enjoyable because the stress of AP testing was behind us. Also, it is harder to spend time fundraising for Relay while also preparing for these major tests. How can we ask a student to choose between studying for AP World History or baking cupcakes to sell to raise money for cancer? There is a reason why division heads specifically tell teachers not to overwhelm their students during the AP testing week. While Spokesman will attend the event because it is something dear to our hearts and we support its efforts, we hope to not see much of a difference between test scores from previous years.
Relay For Life will take place on Saturday, May 4 and AP Testing begins Monday morning on May 6.
Why is sleep important?
• According to the National Health Institute, sleep helps increase attention span and stabilizes an individual’s mood, which helps them concentrate. • Being well-rested enhances academic performance because we cement the information we’ve gathered during the day and create it into memories while we sleep. • Data has seen a positive correlation between more sleep and higher test scores.
keira’s kartoons
Information from NPR
Thumbs Up...
To Dr. Lazaro Lopez, principal, for his honor as the best principal in the State of Illinois. With the numerous advancements, WHS is proud to have him represent the school. To the Crucial Step Clique (CSC) for “four-peating” its State winning performances. To the multicultural literature students for fundraising for Feed My Starving Children. To Derek Williamson, technology supervisor, for his new role as Dean of Students for next year. He is deserving and one of the many unsung heroes of WHS.
Thumbs Discovery of S.O.S. helps voice personal struggles Down...
Rossy Peralta Over the years, discussions of mental illness have increased because of awareness programs and people opening up about their struggles. This year, freshmen were given information about a program
called Signs of Suicide, also known as S.O.S. This program for teens teaches about the symptoms of depression, specifically suicidal thoughts. According to Elyssas Mission, an organization that provides the resources to support at-risk teens and to prevent suicide, some of the warning signs of suicidal thoughts include expressing the belief that life is meaningless, having a lack of motivation, feeling hopelessness and more. Although some students may not take S.O.S seriously, can’t relate to it or don’t see it as useful, there may
be other students who are too scared to talk about it and who will benefit from S.O.S. I’ve been dealing with depressive feelings and thoughts since I was 10 years old. A year after, I developed an unhealthy coping skill. Over the years, these feelings got worse, but I never knew why. Once I got to high school, I learned about depression in a similar program to S.O.S., and I asked for help. I learned that there are about 5,400 attempts of suicide in teens between seventh grade to 12th grade. Anxiety disorders are the
Spokesman Staff 2012-2013
Editor-in-Chief
Focus Editor
Asst. Web Editor
Asst. Sports Editor Kelly McKewin
Web Editor
La Voz Editor
Asst. News Editor
Associate Editor
Forum Editor
Asst. A&E Editor
Asst. Advertising Manager Erik Hernandez
News Editor
Sports Editor
Asst. Feature Editor
A&E Editor
Photo Editor
Feature Editor
Advertising Manager
*Megan Jones
*Rosalie Chan *Solinna Chong Rosalie Chan
*Robert Perales *Frida Valdés
Solinna Chong *Perla Jimenez Megan Jones Megan Jones
*Kristina Piamonte
Megan Jones
Kelly McKewin
Erik Hernandez Chris Nush
Paige McCoy
Asst. Focus Editor Megan Provost
Asst. La Voz Editor Rossy Peralta
*Staff members with asteriks are on the editorial board.
Staff Reporters Aide Hernandez Annalisa Baranowski Antonia Arismendis Erika Pogorzelska Jacquelin Camacho Jean Pabon Katia Bryhadyr Mike Pink Patrick Ryan
most common mental illnesses, and around 10 million Americans suffer with bipolar disorder. Most important, I learned that I wasn’t alone. When I was 15, I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety disorder, and a year after, I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. It was a difficult time for me and my family. It was hard to admit that I was struggling with my emotions, but at the same time, it gave my family the opportunity to get close. Shortly after my first diagnosis, I began therapy where I learned to work on developing healthy
Graphic Designers This is the official student Henry Gonzalez newspaper of Wheeling High Nycole Garcia School, 900 S. Elmhurst Road, Wheeling, Ill. 60090. Written, Staff Artist edited and distributed 8 times Keira Skenandore a year by advanced journalism classes, independent studies and Adviser other interested and qualified John Uhrik 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 encour-
coping skills, and I was prescribed medication that helped regulate my moods. Now at 17, I am transitioning out of therapy. I still struggle with my unhealthy skill, but I’m in recovery, and I’ve met people who inspire me everyday. Adding S.O.S. to the curriculum is a great way to spread awareness. The program similar to S.O.S. gave me the courage to ask for help. If more people are informed about mental illness, people won’t have to deal with their problems on their own. If you or someone is dealing with suicidal thoughts, tell an adult.
aged 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.
To the tardy table making students even more late to class than they originally were to school. Shouldn’t our STEM school have a faster way to do this, like scan IDs?
CorrectionsNone.
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Three returning starters bring hope to team Kelly McKewin asst. sports editor The boys volleyball team starts its season in hopes of competing for a Conference title and beating its rivals, while also maintaining its team chemistry and attitude. “This season is going to be different in the sense of how it’s played and the attitudes of the players. This team is willing to invest more than previous ones,” Jason Kopkowski, volleyball coach, said. “They’re usually fun, energetic and passionate. They play with a lot of passion, which is the way the game should be played.” This year’s team only has three returning varsity
Kristina Piamonte Tim Lee, senior, sets up Jack Anderson, senior, for a spike against Zack Nauert and Nate Majkowski, seniors. “As with most expectations, I hope we can do better than last season,” Lee said.
Infographic by Solinna Chong
starters. Tim Lee, senior, is one of the returning players and believes the team has the chance to do really well this year. “I feel it (the season) will start off a little shaky but by the end we’ll do well in conference and as a team. It depends on mental strength and the focus on the goals,” Lee said. Players and coaches created a list of long-term goals and daily standards to follow through on. Goals include playing for a conference title and beating Hersey and Buffalo Grove, the team’s biggest rivals. The team’s standards are to work hard everyday, hold each other accountable and to limit its unforced errors. Coach Kopkowski be-
lieves that success comes in different ways, and that as long as the team is more successful than not, they will be accomplished. “I expect to be a scrappy team. I expect our team identity to be a strong defensive team. That’s what we’re going to be at the core, but hopefully we’ll become more offensive,” Coach Kopkowski said. Zack Nauert, senior, along with Jacob Del Toro, senior, will also return this year on varsity. Nauert believes the new team is coming together really well and should prove to have a good season. “I’m excited for this year,” Nauert said. “I think we should definitely have a winning season this year
and hopefully win a tournament. Watching them as a JV team last year, they were really scrappy but good on defense. I think we’ll be really good.” Since there are only three returning players, Lee thinks the team needs to work on its chemistry and coordination because most of last year’s JV players have played together for a long time. He feels that it would help them work better together as a team. “I’m hoping we can do well and push hard throughout the season without giving up,” Lee said. The team had its first game on Tuesday, March 19 at home against Maine East. Results were not available by press time.
All levels of the volleyball program are working together.They were split into five teams, allowing seniors to work with freshmen. Each team is competing to raise money for the program. The winning team that sells the most $15 Buffalo Wild Wing cards will receive a free Buffalo Wild Wings Party. The competition ends Friday, March 22. See a volleyball player to purchase your discount savings card. Used with permission from Lair Justin Loquercio, freshman, swims during practice which has helped him drop times. In his individual medley, Loquercio’s time dropped to a 2.10. In the 500-yard freestyle, Loquercio’s time dropped to 5:08. “I look up to Michael Jordan. I know it sounds cliche,” Loquercio said. “The mental and physical toughness he shows makes me want to be like him.”
Loquercio balances multiple sports along with school work Paige McCoy asst. feature editor Running and swimming are demanding sports that take up time and energy. Justin Loquercio, freshman, has been trying his best at both. “My favorite part of sports is being with your team or improving your time from before,” Loquercio said. Loquercio began running in sixth grade at Holmes Middle School and swimming when he was ten. Throughout his running career, Loquercio’s best race was when he placed sixth in the 800 meter race at State in seventh grade. “There is no ‘I’ in team, but there is an ‘I’ in win. Which one do you want?” Loquercio said. He uses this saying as his
mantra during sports. This year in cross country, Loquercio placed 12th in the Regional race out of 63 runners. He received the best time at WHS and advanced to Sectionals, where he placed 72 out of 160 runners. Loquercio’s best time at a meet was 15:49 when he ran three miles. “We are looking ahead to the summer and next fall for a big step forward from Justin and a lot of our younger guys,” Tom Polak, cross country coach, said. Despite taking honors classes, he has never stopped swimming and running. “It’s hard balancing both because when I would come home from a practice, I would have no energy to do my homework, but the homework has to get done,” Loquercio said. His parents have helped
Loquercio to reach his goals. They always support him in all of his events, even if it means missing a meeting or a dinner. “When I was in seventh grade, I played two sports at the same time, so once, both my parents were going to dinner, but they had to get me from one game to go to a practice,” Loquercio said. Alfonso Figueroa, senior, has ran with Loquercio. “We challenge each other by poking fun at our flaws. At times it may sound harsh, but really, they make us want to achieve our goals even more. I look up to Justin in his personality. He is very determined and hardworking when he has to be. He still finds time to have fun and enjoy himself, which is something that the cross country team really needed,” Figueroa said.
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sports Volume 49 Issue 6
March 20, 2013
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upcoming events Baseball; 4:30 p.m. today at Streamwood HS Girls Soccer; 6:15 p.m. today at home
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Boys Water Polo; 7 p.m. today at Vernon Hills HS
players of the winter season boys basketball
With spring sports looming ahead, Spokesman wants to give recognition to some of our star athletes of the winter season. Players have been selected by coach’s recommendation.
Nick Ricciardi, senior Achievements: Was nominated as “Player of the Week” by the Daily Herald Scored 20 points in one game
laid a building block for the rest of “ We the team. I was proud of the way we
Kristina Piamonte Javika Shah, freshman, runs the 4x4 relay as the girls track and field team cheer her on at the Glenbrook South meet on Wednesday, March 6. “I did good for our first away meet, but there is still room for improvement,” Shah said. The junior varsity 4x4 relay placed first.
Information complied by: Megan Jones, Solinna Chong, Erika Pogorzelska, Chris Nush, Megan Provost, Kristina Piamonte and Annalisa Baranowski Photos by: Kristina Piamonte and Lair
Wildcats start warming up track Patrick Ryan staff reporter When the snow starts to melt and the weather warms, the track teams begin their seasons. The boys and girls teams have practiced indoors since February, and both are itching for the chance to get outside. “We have the biggest team we’ve had in 10 years,” Mike Theodosakis, girls head track coach, said. “The girls are hardworking and have good personalities. Our goal for this season is to keep setting personal bests, to be as strong as we can in all areas and to keep a positive mindset.” According to Tom Polak, boys head track coach, the team has had five indoor
meets so far. “We’re better than we were last year, and we have strong senior leadership,” Coach Polak said. “My goal for this season is to be in the top half of the Conference.” Both the girls and boys track teams practice Monday through Saturday, and Coach Polak motivates his athletes by having them earn their team shirts. “In the past, everyone who showed up got a shirt,” Polak said. “This year, you have to beat personal bests to earn your shirt. Freshmen have to beat five; sophomores, three; juniors, two; and seniors, one. According to Mauricio Zavala, freshman, the shirt policy is fair. “You have to show that you’re committed and have
to work hard to earn the shirt,” Zavala said. “The team has lots of potential, and the shirt policy makes people strive for greatness.” Coach Theodosakis said that “one of our biggest challenges this season will be staying healthy. Losing a girl will definitely affect the team as a whole.” Hailey Dammeier, sophomore, fractured her ankle playing basketball and comes everyday to work out with the team and to help out the coaches until she can participate again. Dammeier hopes to be back this season around mid-March or early April. “Our girls are competitors, and want to push themselves to do their absolute best,” Coach Theodosakis said.
Polo faces early season challenges Rosalie Chan
web editor By press time, girls water polo held a record of 2-3, winning against Palatine and Prospect High Schools. Boys water polo has yet to win a game, but the team waits on some members to finish their club swim seasons before returning to polo. Boys water polo has a record of 0-6 and a record of 0-1 in Conference. However, they did not play any games with the full team until March 15. “I think we’re playing great. We need to learn from every win, every loss,” Bob Savitt, varsity girls water polo coach, said. “Boys and girls water polo are really comparable. We’re very young. We have really good potential. I think we’re all going to shock people.” The girls water polo team lost Emily Zieger, junior at the beginning of the season due to an injury. In addition, the team members do not have set positions this year. “We don’t really have set positions, so we’re going to be moving around the whole season,” Rachel Ropski, junior, said. Some of the challenges boys water polo faces include new varsity members and missing teammates. “We didn’t start off as well as we had hoped, but that’s just because we’re missing a bunch of kids, and a bunch of guys are moving up to the varsity level,” Lukasz Szczepaniec, senior, said. According to Nate Reiff, freshman, the team has found it difficult to play without a full team at the beginning of the season. “Right now it’s pretty much two main offenses with six people in the water. We need to collaborate more,” Reiff said. “We haven’t had a full roster for our game. We’re always one or two men down.”
played the second half of the season.” - Ricciardi
During press time, Anthony Como, boys basketball coach, was out on paternity leave. Spokesman took authority to pick a player.
girls basketball
Deanna Kuzmanic, sophomore Achievements: Earned AllConference and All-State from the Ill. Basketball Coach Association put in lots of hard work, even if “ We the record didn’t reflect it.”
bowling
Cailey Markiewicz, senior Achievements: Highest game: 210 Bowled 39 games and hit 6,253 pins in total season went really good. The “ The team worked really hard and we all motivated each other.” -- Markiewicz
-- Kuzmanic
was consistently the highest “ She kept consistency on offense.” bowler. Her average of 160 led our “ She - Julissa Hernandez, basketball coach team for the season.” -- Beth Anderson, bowling coach
cheerleading
gymnastics
Kelsey Hancock, senior
Anne Janulis, junior Achievements: She placed first all around. The team held a Conference record of 1-5.
Achievements: Each competition the team advanced higher in their composite score of all four seasons I’ve cheered, “ Out I think we’ve come so far, especially when we beat Elk Grove by getting fourth place.” -- Hancock
the season, we all improved and “ Over it hardened our skills.” - Janulis
is the most consistent player and “ She was one of our captains and was “ She “all around” improved towards the a very positive and strong leader. She end of the season. She also held the highest score.” - Nicole Maila, gymnastics coach
has high goals and helped the coaches with suggestions.” - Jennifer Cederberg, cheerleading coach
wrestling
boys swimming & diving Kristina Piamonte Igor Drab, senior, passes the ball to one of his teammates during a meet against Prospect High School.
Both teams hope to make State this year. “Our coach really wants us to go to State. We have the potential. It will be really hard though because we basically have no subs. We’ll have to play a full game with no rests, which is quite difficult,” Katharine Schwarz, senior, said. The team also has goals for helping younger members on varsity. “Our coach is always pushing for State. I just want to come as close to that game as we can,” Sam Mozdzynski, senior, said. “Another goal is becoming a stronger team. Also, helping to teach our younger kids because they’re the future of Wheeling water polo.”
Tulga Zuunbayan, freshman Achievements: Held a record of 34-8 Reached 161 team points
Jake Noel, freshman Achievements: Qualified for IHSA State Swim Meet season went pretty good and I “ The broke my 100 meter record with a
season was not what I expected. “ The It was great to win MVP. I enjoyed
time of 52.69 seconds.” -- Nowell
had the most finishes in “ He Conference, Sectional and State on
the team.” -- Tom Schwager, swimming coach
“
receiving training and having fun with my teammates.” -- Zuunbayan He led the team in wins, points and takedowns. He was a very successful MSL varsity champion and regional champion, and he’s only a freshman. Out of thirty years, this has only happened a couple of times.” -- Neal Weiner, wrestling coach