– page 2
Go to DVThundermedia.com for more news, slideshows and more! March 2011
– page 3
Students in Best Buddies are out to make sure everybody has a friend.
– page 4
First girl at DV to challenge herself to be a member of the boys football team.
SPORTS
New Egyptian order must beware of ties to Islam
FEATURES
NEWS
Entire school coming down with an illness. Students and teachers tired and miserable.
OPINIONS
March 2011
– page 7
The View
Volume 15, Issue 6
Desert Vista High School
Catching Up On Sleep What do students do with free time during early release or late start? by Nicole Salsburg Staff Writer
Michelle Abunaja/The View
Larry Strom explains a difficult math problem.
ASPAM Two AIMS down, one to go! by Michelle Abunaja Staff Writer
ASPAM is the acronym for All Sophomores Pass AIMS Math. The AIMS math is a test that all math teachers believe their students are capable of passing. The biggest issue is the incompletion of homework. The first proposal is that all sophomores do their homework. until April 5th, the day of the test. If everyone simply does their math homework, they will receive vital practice for the test. “Every single Desert Vista student is more than capable of passing the AIMS math test,” said head of math department Larry Strom. “If everybody shows up the 4 days before AIMS and studies with a math teacher, they’re going to do a really great job.” The second largest problem is missing class or daydreaming while a teacher is explaining proofs or the Pythagorean theorem. It is not advisable to miss March 31st, April 1st, April 4th, and the day of the test- April 5th. The review before the test will help tremendously. Sophomores typically do well on the test. Students that miss 9 problems or less exceed. Every sophomore is capable of passing the AIMS math this year.
high school credit for it. Other students just take the time they have off to relax at home. Wakeing up a few hours later, or going home a few hours before everyone else. “I, of course, sleep in during my spare time,” said Junior Alexa Saunders. “I’ve had late start since sophomore year, and I’m loving it.”
Who doesn’t love not having school? The days off for holidays, students all spend their time wisely, being sure not to waste a single second of no school time. The seniors and juniors who are caught up with their c re d i t s a n d don’t want to be at school for unnecessary hours, have a late start, or an early release. What are these students doing in their spare time? The school offers a program for seniors only, w h e re t h e y have a few classes a day, and then go to work. Nothing changes with their job, but Nick Selby, Junior, takes now they are get
a nap after a
Alexa also explains what her sister, Senior Sammi Saunders, does with her late start: “My sister mostly uses her time to study. Which is a smart idea, especially because I know I won’t do my homework that night, so the extra hour in the morning gives me time do my homework.” So if a student is caught up with their credits, and feels like an extra hour in the morning or afternoon is the best strategy to survive high school, they can choose to go for it! Whether they use the extra time to go to work, study, or catch some Z’s, early release and late start is someNicole Salsburg/The View thing Seniors Juniors will long day of school. and always enjoy.
A Dead Language Dying Again The Advanced Placement will drop an exam for Latin classes in 2012-2013. by Jessica Tueller Staff Writer
The college board has decided to get rid of one of their two AP Latin tests. The change becomes official in the school year of 2012-13. “I am sad about the college board’s decision,” said Latin teacher Sarah Palumbo. “Some students need to have as many AP classes as possible and they just took away an opportunity for students to do two APs in Latin. Also, two APs are offered in Spanish so why cannot
Latin provide that same opportunity for our students?” In May 2008, the college board said they would get rid of the
Jessica Tueller/The View
test. Unfortunately, education did
not seem a factor in the decision. “Latin teachers . . . have tried to work with the college board and convince them to change their mind,” said Palumbo. “The college board stated that offering two AP Latins (Vergil and Latin Lit) was not a wise financial decision.” Luckily, with a little tweaking in the curriculum, Desert Vista should be able to take the blow. Palumbo said, “Since we expect Latin students at the third year level to be at par with a college student at the 202 level, DV is in good shape.”
Isabelle Tuli/The View
Choir student Dana Cobb practices for concert March 10th.
DoReMi FaSoLa by Isabelle Tuli Staff Writer
The melodious Irish-themed choir concert was held this past Thursday, March 10. It was the third (and second to last) concert of the year. The musical choir serenaded the audience with harmonious Irish songs. With St. Patrick’s day only a week away, Choir 3-4 specifically performed Celtic hit songs such as “P is for Paddy”,” Fare Ye Wheel”, and “The Blessing.” Each class had a different set of Celtic songs, all fitting into the Irish theme. “I’m excited because the songs are really cool and exciting,” said freshman Alicia Deros. “They have good tunes and beats to them.” Deros, a talented singer, is in the Choir 3-4 class. The musically skilled students had prepared for their big show starting at the beginning of the 3rd quarter, and it was evident in their performance that the practice paid off. “We practice the songs a couple of times each day and we do sectionals,” Deros explained. Choir’s last and biggest concert performance will take place near the end of 4th quarter.
2 NEWS
The View March 2011
The Kids are Back in Charge
Student Council prepares for next year’s council and class elections by Isabelle Tuli Staff Writer
Assemblies, dances, class competitions, Homecoming: all of these and more complete a memorable high school experience. Student Council builds positive spirit and enhances school pride for students and staff without fail throughout the year. “I have the honor and privilege to work with some of the most spirited, dedicated students DV
has to offer,” said Miguel Marrero. Marrero has sponsored Student Council for almost 7 years. “We are responsible for creating the positive spirit on our campus through our sports and activities. And this goes on all year long!” Student Council is responsible not only for getting the school pumped, but also for planning and participating in many school events. Students with school spirit flowing through their veins who are also dedicated and hardworking
are considered perfect candidates for the upcoming elections. Elections will take place at the end of March, and class elections are towards the end of April. Freshmen elections take place at the beginning of the next school year. “Student Council is not only for the elected officers,” said Marrero. “It is open to all students and staff who wish to join in the decisionmaking process of how we can improve our spirit and pride on campus.”
More than just two The 2011 Diablo Awards
Benefits when students take extra years of Spanish by Nicole Salsburg
by Michelle Abunaja
Staff Writer
“Hola, como estas.” That’s Spanish for ‘how are you’. The most popular language students take at Desert Vista, would be Spanish. Students believe the Spanish language is the most beneficial, because jobs in the United States look for those who can speak English and Spanish. “Yeah, when filling out an application to work at the Chandler mall, no one really cares if you can speak Russia,” said freshman, Tori Miller. Even though it is proven that Latin students have better English grades, and French is romantic, students still prefer to take Spanish. Since two years of a language is required for college, students tend to only take the first two years. There are only a few over achievers who decide to take Spanish 5-6 and 7-8. They believe two years just isn’t enough to fully understand a language. But others think two years is all they need, for college, and all they need to know. “I think students don’t take Spanish 5-6 and 7-8 because they are afraid it is too difficult. They might just not have an interest in it either,” explained Spanish Teacher, Ryan Tolman. Knowing Spanish is really beneficial for students. When applying for jobs, managers want to know that if a Hispanic customer comes in, they will be able to take care of it. Also one of the more obvious reasons for jobs involving Spanish,
Staff Writer
Nicole Salsburg/The View
The word ‘welcome’ in Spanish welcomes you to take Spanish classes 5-6 and 7-8. are translators. With not that many people taking an interest in other languages, a translator is a great job, and a perfect reason to take all four years of Spanish. Of course, it’s not only Spanish that needs translating. But in the United States, that’s the main-in-need-of-translation language. “After the second year of taking Spanish, the rest count as college credit through Dual Enrollment. Not to mention in Spanish 7-8, students take a trip to Spain! But I suppose the best benefit of taking all four years is simply just knowing Spanish,” said Mr. Tolman. As well as those benefits, students who take the third and fourth year of Spanish do better in school over all. They tend to be the more dedicated hard working students. “Students who take the third and fourth year of Spanish do tend to be in more honors classes,” said Mr. Tolman. Schedules are tight, but with the help of zero hour, eight hour, summer school and online classes, fitting one extra language class might just be the right may to go. Adios amigo!
“I suppose the best benefit of taking all four years is simply just knowing Spanish”
Two Desert Vista teachers were nominated for Tempe Union Highschool Districts Diablo award: English teacher Katrina Montoya and Business and Computer Apps teacher Dabney Leinberger. They have both been recognized for their efforts, and immense love for what they do. Their contributions as teachers have not gone unnoticed. Montoya was nominated in the above and beyond category. Montoya’s recommendation was sent in by fellow English teacher, Ms.
Isabelle Tuli/The View
Sammi Saunders, StuCo president, spreads her enthusiasm and Desert Vista pride everyday. Amanda Domino. The recommendation letter started off flattering and to the point, “Katrina is simply amazing.” She also wrote of Montoya’s support of clubs. She has sponsored Gay-Straight-Alliance for two years. This is also her first year working with the Thunder Speech Theater and Debate Company. Plus, Montoya is apart of the Advanced-Ed team. “She is an incredible teacher,” wrote Domino, “one with a passion for learning and enthusiasm for teaching.” Leinberger was nominated in the Innovation category, being recognized for her work on Desert Vista’s new School Fusion page. The department chair Stacey Foster nominated her: “Dabney Leinberger is a very creative individual and her artistic ability and technology know-how has made her indispensable as Webmaster of the new school fusion website.” Leinberger was “humbled to be nominated,” as she wrote in a questioner. Though neither Montoya nor Leinberger received an award, their hard work has not gone unnoticed.
Michelle Abunaja/The View
Ms. Montoya, candidate for a Diablo Award, explains an assignment. These teachers benefit Desert Vista in numerous ways and don’t expect recognition. “I just do the work for the school not to get notoriety,” said Leinberger. “I just want the school to be better.”
Sickly School Sadness
Students and staff misery caused by unending third quarter illness by Jessica Tueller
isn’t all fun and games, especially in the middle of third quarter. ProjStaff Writer ects, papers, and placement exams Coughing, sniffling, headaches spill onto sickbeds as students try galore. This month, school has to keep up. been filled with people getting sick, “Teachers need to stop giving so currently sick, and getting better. It many assignments during the cold seems that nothing will stop these and flu season,” said sophomore sicknesses until the entire school Megan Shepard. “The last thing I catches something. want to do when I’m sick is school Coming down with an illness work.” Even in dire illness, Shepard still attempts to get to school everyday. Missing assignments are too much of a headache to make up. “So many students are so afraid to miss classes that they’re willing to show up near death,” said Shepard. “I haven’t been healthy Jessica Tueller/The View since December because I haven’t had a chance to heal.” Megan Shepard arrives But students aren’t the only ones to her first hour, still sick. affected. English teacher Kelly
Price was sick for a week with a respiratory virus and probably the flu as well. “Being gone always, always adds to the work load for teachers,” said Price. “It hurt my ability to stay on top of essay grading. It was hard for me to speak in class and read with students. I was fatigued and had no energy by lunch.” Not only was illness hard on Price, but all the interaction at school made it so 44 of Price’s students were sick this quarter, and some of them still are. “I keep Kleenex, Clorox wipes, and hand sanitizer in the classroom for all to use, as many teachers do . . . but I think the fact that we are crammed in close quarters, all touching the door knob, etc., we should have fully disinfected classrooms during cold and flu season.” An endless sickness cycle has hit Desert Vista, making school miserable for everyone.
OPINIONS 3
The View March 2011
Revlon Revolt
Jasmine Revolution Ousts Mubarak
by Kelly Bodine Staff Writer
Feel the need to look good for school? Maybe you want to look your best for a school dance. Most girls use makeup 24/7. Some put on as much cover up as possible. Other girls are fine with eyeliner and mascara. There is a fine line between bringing out facial beauty and looking like a clown. “Make up should be worn at an older age not when they’re too young,” said freshman Angelica Chee. “I just wear eyeliner because it’s modern.” Make up is one of those things that make girls feel pretty. A little makeup is flattering, but caking it isn’t a great idea. Eyeliner and eye shadow is good enough. “People that cake on make up look like Ke$ha raccoons.” said freshman Lori Pruitt.. Unless they’re six years old, I highly doubt girls want to look like life size Barbie dolls. And too much make up can send the wrong messages; such as looking like you’re going to be Ke$ha for Halloween when you walk into class to take a test. Sure it makes eyes shimmer and lips glimmer. However, the products of make up that girls use often contain oil, which makes girls break out.. It’s one thing to make yourself look pretty with make up, but when you over use it? That is a totally different thing. Everything is good in moderation, and makeup is included. Try to fight that urge to grab the liquid foundation, and stick with a little eyeliner. I promise that you will look great without the rest.
Kelly Bodine/The View
Turmoil wears on in the Middle East as the fallen are put to rest. by Joseph Beck Staff Writer
Ever since Tunisia liberated itself in January, the entire area has exploded in protests, riots, and demonstrations. It’s called the “Jasmine Revolution” and its stretched as far as China. Algeria has already authorized it’s military to fire live ammunition into crowds of protesters. Libya’s president has refused to step down despite vicious demonstrations calling for his resignation. “I will die a martyr,” he said in a press conference on February 23. As the weeks wear on, the casualties are sure to rise and the streets are certain to become bloodier
and bloodier. On February 11th, Egyptian President Mubarak fled Cairo after 18 days of continued protests; ending his nearly three decade reign. Now, the Egyptian people must think about rebuilding. The police force is in shambles and widely disliked for its support of Mubarak during the revolution. The government has been paralyzed and Egypt is under martial law until the next election. This is a monumentally important time in Egyptian history and it is vital that they don’t let power fall into the wrong hands, or else they would just be trading
despot for despot. Samar El-Sharkawy, has been very close to the situation in Egypt and the middle east at large. Though Samar was born in the States, she holds dual citizenship in Egypt. Much of her family still lives in Egypt, some of them participating in the drama in Cairo. “I support the change, I feel like it was needed.” Cairo has finally freed itself from a vicious dictator. But many Egyptians would not have believed that ousting Mubarak was the easy part. The rapid change of leadership has left Egypt shell-shocked and
Picture Courtesy of Campus MCT
directionless. Business remains stagnant throughout much of the nation as employees strike for better wages and working conditions. The country as a whole is unionizing. After so many years of oppression, Egyptians are finally able to speak their minds Now will be looked back on as a critical point in history for Egypt and the region. How Egypt turns out will set the mood for the entire revolution. It is vital that they establish a working, secular government that avoids the strong ties to Islam that many of the neighboring nations have fallen to.
Spice goes up in smoke Marijuana substitute needs more research and less hype. by Joseph Beck Staff Writer
It would seem that this year’s buzzword is spice. Spice, is a chemical blend that, when smoked will cause a marijuanalike high that won’t show up on drug tests. The substance is currently legal in Arizona, but is the center of an immense debate surrounding marijuana. Tetrahyrdocannabinol, or THC, is the active ingredient in marijuana that creates the high that pot is known for. When spice first became prominent in the early 2000’s it was believed to be a mix of various herbs that produced the feeling. Further analysis in 2008 discovered that spice contained a synthetic of THC. The various substitutes
are the focus of concern lately due to their unpredictable nature. spice is sold in smoke shops and online as incense and has, thus far, escaped scrutiny from the FDA by labeling it as “not for human consumption”. Professor John W. Huffman of the Clemson University in South Carolina, who first synthesized cannabinols, has been very critical of the drug and its users. “People that use them are idiots,” Said Hoffman, “You don’t know what it’s going to do to you.” Internationally Spice has been on the hot list. Markets for the substance overseas have gone up in smoke due to higher regulations and there are some calling for those forms of
regulations in Arizona. “I think it would be beneficial for marijuana to become legal because spice is much more dangerous” Currently there is not a drug test that Spice will appear on. Unreliable sources have produced evidence that Spice could possibly be harmful. It is an issue that will require serious laboratory research by an experienced and unbiased crew.
Joseph Beck/The View
Spice is a mind-altering drug and, therefore, has the potential for danger. Its side-effects vary from person to person. Some get sick and some report a much more powerful high. Because the effects are so haphazard, the risks are very difficult, if not impossible, to gauge. Until more is known about the benefits and dangers of Spice, it is important that it not be the subject of hype.
4
CENTERSPREAD
March 2011
Boxing up hope Shannon Masel Staff Writer
The SAGE club has been busy with service projects this year--the Angel Tree drive, the Maricopa Book Drive, and now Jared’s Box. Shoe boxes filled with crayons, coloring books, and toys do not mean much to high school kids, but to chronically ill children, they mean the world. When kids come back from surgery to find a present for them waiting, their spirits soar. “Not only will you be helping
kids by donating, but you will get donation hours for NHS, health class, and KEY club,” said sponsor Dawn Schmidt. SAGE is a club that focuses on preparing students for their future. Guest speakers talk about subjects like SAT prep, internships, how to fill out college applications. “You just show up to the meetings,” said Schmidt. “You don’t have to be in the gifted program or honors classes, it’s a future preparation club.” SAGE does service projects
every semester or so. With the Angel Tree drive, the club donated presents to kids who would not have gotten one otherwise. In the Maricopa Book drive, they donated books to kids who cannot afford their own. To help put the boxes together, contact Mrs. Schmidt or visit her room, C278. Even though the drive ended on March 4th on campus, any clubs wanting to help the organization can visit www.thejaredbox.com for information to get started helping the chronically ill.
Shannon Masel/The View
Members of SAGE club (from left) Jessica Ebert, Dakota Johnson, and Alison Richardson pose with their box donations. The boxes will be filled with craft activites to be given to chronically ill children.
Staff Writer
Tiny laughter, crayons hitting paper, and numbers filling their times tables. Students at Wilson Elementary School in downtown Phoenix fill their day with learning and friends. But, there is a specific club that makes learning even more enjoyable and fun for these children. Community Counts, sponsored by Kathy Shamley, is a club that focuses its time on helping and tutoring young minds. The club is a program that tutors underprivileged children and creates fun learning days for the children in every way possible. Activities such as field trips to the Phoenix Zoo and other fun learning destinations is what Community Counts provides for these kids. Many students that are involved in the club believe that getting involved in the community and creating a positive influence to those who don’t have as much as they should will help these communities become a better place, one child at a time. On the days the club goes and visits the children, the club walks into colorful classrooms filled
with bright, shining faces, ready to learn. Many members of the club feel that it’s great working with the kids, getting to know them, help influence them in their academics, and give them someone to look up to. “The thing I like the most is just being with the kids. When we go to the school, just seeing their faces when they light up when we are there is great. Education is so important for these kids, and the fact that Desert Vista can be a part of contributing to these kids’ education is just amazing,” said sophomore McKenzie Landwehr. “Not only do we help these kids with their academics in mentoring them, but we also create a special bond with them where we can just sit down and talk. For these kids, just having someone who cares about them and having someone to look up to is all they ever wanted. Being a part of it is great, because I love kids and wanted to make a difference.” Around our communities, some students don’t have the same opportunities as others, especially when it comes to being successful academically. For these underprivileged students, having a helping
hand to show them that learning is fun and to never give up, shows them that they can be someone when their time comes. For other members of the club, they also wanted to join because not only do they want to see a change in communities, but in the world. Also, they love getting the chance to go out and about with the kids and show them around. “I joined because I want to be the change that I want to see in the world. One of my favorite parts is going to the Phoenix Zoo because you are able to see the kids smile and have fun,” said sophomore Gretchen Proulx. “I will definitely do this next year. It benefits me because I am able to give back to the community, and it also benefits the kids to where they have a positive influence in their life.” For some, life isn’t just about helping yourself, but to help others that are in need of it, and that want to make their lives better and educate themselves for their future. Community Counts gives these children that opportunity by influencing them and encouraging them to do their best in the academic field, because a little help can go a long way.
L i f e
Members of Best Buddies befriend those who need it.
Relay raised $167,000 last year. Here is an inside look on 3 teams participating this year.
Melissa Dean Staff Writer
Friendship: a word that means several things to many different people. From sticking up for someone to someone who is always there for you, no matter what. For our Best Buddies club, making friendships and interacting with others is what it’s all about. Best Buddies is a club that’s main objective is to give interaction for students with intellectual disabilities. The club gives these students with disabilities a chance and opportunity to have a regular high school experience. During the program, members of the club are all individually assigned a specific buddy. The buddy that they are assigned is the person that they will mostly spend their time with and give them their phone number in case they would like to get together over the weekends throughout the program. Many members of the club wanted to join for several reasons, that of being to help others live a normal and happy high school life. Not only do they want to spread
5
Relay for
Lending a hand
Shannon Masel
Ellie Bell/The View
Staff Writer
Colleen Henderson, Freshman Q: What is your theme? The theme this year is iRelay, so my team is KISS, and we’re kissing cancer goodbye! Q: Are you having any fundraisers? We are selling luminarias for $10 and we’ll probably sell some other stuff at the event. Q: Tips for team members and captains? Team members should cooperate with their captains, and vice versa. Teams should remember why they are relaying, and not about themselves.
Ellie Bell/The View
this kind of friendship to these students, but throughout the entire school altogether as well. “I joined Best Buddies because it gives me the chance to be a part of something to help students interact and be with others,” said freshman Marissa Gomez. During the club, members do
Community Counts: encouraging the young to give back Melissa Dean
The View
many activities and special events with the students. But, it’s not all about the activities that counts. “My favorite part of the program is all of the activities that we get to do. It’s not about being with your specific buddy, but being with everyone as a whole,” said Gomez.
But, more than just activities fill up their time, but several campaigns do as well. On Thursday, March 3rd, Best Buddies held a campaign that has also been spread nationally, that is called, “Spread the Word to End the Word”. The campaign held the main focus of stopping the use
of the “R” word. Members of the club wore necklaces to support the cause and also had a Day of Silence to encourage it as well. Helping others is a part of our lives, whether we know it or not. It only takes a little step to make a big difference.
Teach me, por favor? Kelly Bodine
The spanish club is working hard to get their tutoring up and running.
Melissa Dean/The View
The Community Counts Club t-shirt is just as encouraging as the club, what they do, and the message they proclaim.
I relay because it’s a good cause and it’s pretty fun to dress up.
Joseph Steigerwald, Sophomore Q: What is your theme? Ke$ha! Our team name is TEAM SMA$H CANCER. Q: Are you having any fundraisers? We’re planning on throwing a dance party and maybe a salsa competition! Q: Tips for team members and captains?
Staff Writer
The Spanish club is working towards tutoring young kids at Con cordia Elementary. These children speak little English, and the Spanish club aims to help them out. “The name of the school is Mesa-Cordia,” said Rachel De la Cruz, sophmore and one of the leaders of spanish club. The club needs more people in order to be able to start tutoring. Anybody in need of volunteer hours and takes a Spanish class should contact Shawna Thue, room C248. “We need about 8 more people,” said De la Cruz. “We can help these really help these kids.” Living in Arizona, there are lots of Spanish speakers struggling in grade schools across Phoenix. The tutoring program will help both our students and the ones they are teaching.
Q: Why do you relay?
Stick to it! It may seem overwhelming at times but the reward will well worth the work you put in to it. Q: Why do you relay? I relay because I’ve personally seen how cancer affects people and families and I just want to see it stop.
Sara Delaney, Junior Q: What is your theme? We are the Little Monsters and we are putting our paws up against cancer. Q: Are you having any fundraisers? Chrissy Grandell/The View
Rachel De la Cruz, sophomore, soon to be tutor of spanish speaking kids, attending Concordia Elementary School “Being able to help the Spanish speaking community is an awesome experience,” De la Cruz said. By tutoring the kids, DV students brush up on their own Spanish skills. The club centers around helping the community while helping themselves and making memories. The club de Espanol is
on fire this year with generosity. Thue often brings students down to Rocky Point, Mexico for mission trips. Help the students at MesaCordia with their English and get help with your Spanish. Spanish club meets on Wednesdays in room C248.
We are having an awesome garage sale and a bake sale. Q: Tips for team members and captains? Captains: Be aggressive, B-E aggressive. Leave the weak behind, you are in it to win it, and don’t stop believing. Members: Do not ignore your captains. Q: Why do you relay? I relay because I hate cancer and the damage it has done to this beautiful world.
6 SPORTS
The View March 2011
One of the Boys Brittany Woolgar/The View
Sophomore, Laura Cox is making Desert Vista history by being the first girl to try out for the football team. by Brittany Woolgar Staff Writer
F
ootball: sweat, heavy pads, hard hitting, fights, and being tackled into the ground. All of these aspects of football make it sound like no girl would want to play, and here at Desert Vista no girl ever has. Although thats how it is now, we may be seeing changes to this next year. Sophomore Laura Cox is going out for the team “I decided to try out for football because it is one of my
favorite sports, and I have always wanted to play,” said Cox. Normally, when a girl plays football, their position is punter or kicker becasue there is not as much danger as other positions. Laura on the other hand, has choosen to be a wide reciever. But why would a girl want to play a position where she could easily be hurt? “I am a really fast runner, and I have a pretty nice vertical jump,” said Cox. Those should help when she is running down the field going
for a touchdown. Hopefully we will be seeing her putting points on the board at the first game of next year. “I am loving the practices, we have running practice this month, and in August we start pad practice,” said Cox of future practices. The year is ending very quickly and it will be football season again in no time. As of now, it looks like there is going to be another great football team, and who knows…maybe the state champion title will be ours.
Breaking down the bling
Girls are not the only ones who have to remove their jewelry while participating in a sport. Blingy boys have to play by the same rules. by Chrissy Grandell Staff Writer
To most, it is commonly known that girls are not permitted to wear any sort of jewelry while playing a “contact” sport. All earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and even wristbands must be taken off. Boys sometimes wear jewelry as well; but does it have to come off? According to the MLB rules, distracting jewelry of any kind that could distract the pitcher or the umpire’s calls is not allowed. The player is also not allowed to wear any of the jewelry or wear any pins on their clothing or shirts. “I want my ears pierced so badly! But I have baseball during spring and I wouldn’t want my ears getting hit or anything,” said freshman Kyle Gibbs. These rules may cause other players to wait until summer to get their piercings as well. It might be a waste of money and time to get a piercing or a new piece of jewelry right before the
Freshman, Bobby Delgado season starts. “I had football in the beginning of the year and I got tackled a lot. I really wanted to get my ears pierced but I decided it would probably be smart to wait for my earrings,” said freshman Bobby Delgado Many wonder why jewelry is not allowed. It is your body, so it is your choice, right? Some sports coaches say that they do
Chrissy Grandell/The View
not want the responsibility of a player getting hurt because of a jewelry distraction. Not only that but they say that they have to follow all AIA (Arizona Interscholastic Association) rules and regulations.It may be a smarter idea to wait to get jewelry. But whatever the decision of the player, make sure to play hard!
GRECO-ROMAN WRESTLING COACH “So basically I have been chosen to be the Greco-Roman Wrestling for the 2011 Pan American Games. What happens is the union goes into a pool of coaches that are eligible and choose the best ones; coaches who have a broad experiences. I’ve coached at local, state, and US level, I was a two time Olympian, and I had won the pan American gold in 1979, so my coaching is probably chosen because of all my experience and accomplishments.” --Mr. Matthews
Mr. Matthews sits down to tell us about becoming the coach for this years GrecoRoman Wrestling team.
Chrissy Grandell/The View
Jumping Back Into The SWING Of Things After getting injured, Arya Saba is still enjoying the game. by Mason Roberts Staff Writer
J
umping back into action after tearing his ACL is sophmore Arya Saba. Last year, during a match, Arya tore his ACL and had to wear a knee brace ever since to keep from making his condition worse as well as using crutches and the elevator for awhile. But the tennis is back, and so is Arya! His doctor has commissioned him 30 minutes of practice a day, so he just needs to try his best in every second of his game. His coach even said Arya was one of his best players. Arya has to deal with rigorous physical therapy each week to try and help repair his torn knee. He does this with a doctor every week. He has been working diligently to try and repair his knee so he can resume his tennis endeavors. Tennis requires healthy knees because of all the jumping and running you have to do to hit the ball, so ripping a key part of the game from him made it pretty difficult. To help him over come this new disability, Arya has been playing other sports to give the ACL more work. he plays basket ball with his friends to help his agility and strengthen his jumping muscles. “When you’re in a game, you’ll be leaping and
Mason Roberts/The View
diving to hit the ball back and forth.” Arya has been playing tennis since he was five years old, and since then he has needed three eye surgeries. He spends time each night working on his tennis skills. “Near my house we have a couple tennis courts, so I just walk over there with my dad and bang around a few balls.” He practices diligently to make sure that he is ready for his next match. He does a lot of running and works on his balance. “There is a hiking trail by my house with a bridge. I walk across it on one foot to insure my balance for those one chance shots.” Arya isn’t playing on the team this year, but he works hard on his own to get himself prepared for next year. He is a good athlete and trys to maintain good grades so he can compete when the time comes. “Because of my ACL, my doc said I can only play for 30 minutes. I cant win a match in 30 minutes, I mean I’m good, but I’m not THAT good.” Arya says his leg should be better next year, so be ready to see him the next time you go to a tennis match!
7 SPORTS
The View
Three cheers for Disneyland
Cheerleaders work hard and spread pep at a competition in the happiest place on Earth. by Brittany Woolgar Staff Writer
Although the basketball season ended a while ago, the cheerleaders did not stop cheering. Once the girls had no more games, they had to start preparing for the big competition in Disneyland on March 5th. Preparing for this means long hours, hard work, and finding bruises that may not have been there before. “Every morning after cheer I wake up with a new bruise,” said sophomore Taylor Smith who is on the JV squad. “It will all be worth it when we bring back the big trophy.” For three squads of at least 16 people, it costs a lot of money to travel to Disneyland and pay for enough hotel rooms. Almost all of this money is earned through fundraising. The cheerleaders have been fundraising for this one event all year, some fundraising events they
have done are car washes, rooterpom sales, two cheer clinics and a pledge drive. The fundraising was a success; they made enough money for their trip and also to put some aside for their end of the year banquet. The cheerleaders did incredible at the competition. Freshman took second place out of three, JV took second out of six, and Varsity took fifth out of 15. Not only did they work hard and compete against many different schools from California, but they also had fun in the park. “Disneyland was so much fun,” said Junior Logan Steen. “It was funny watching Maddie and Hunter eat a chicken leg.” With a great season this year, it is unimaginable how good it will be next year. Tryouts are in April and practice starts in June, so be ready to have the peppiest pep squad in Arizona.
Preparing for Battle
Staff Writer
Every day, with the exception of Sunday, DV sports teams are practicing with much effort. With softball in season, their first game was on March 1st. Not only was it the first game of the season, but it was against rival, Mountain Point. Preparation goes for all games;
Featured Athlete by Ellie Bell Staff Writer
Megan Henrichsn/The View
On the way to Universal Studios, the girls show off their smiles to create memories of their hard-earned experience.
Softball season is well underway and players work extra hard to beat rival team at Mountain Pointe. by Chrissy Grandell
March 2011
Michelle Coro/The View
Coach O’Keefe and son give a pep talk to the freshman girls softball team before the big game. practice is a main goal. Does more effort go out in practice before a mountain point game? “It’s Mountain Point, so yes we do practice harder. We always beat Mountain Point, we never lose to them,” said freshman coach Bearnie O’Keefe Coach says there isn’t any difference but do players agree?
From the looks of it, players are out there working hard everyday after school. “Well this is my first year on the team, but I always hear coach mention mountain point. He keeps saying how we never lose to them. So I would suspect that we would work much harder and play much harder before playing a Mountain
win, we definitely have one of the better teams to watch,” he added. Last year, the team ended its season with a win- lose ratio of 17-1 with the loss at the semi-finals. Andrew Gott also wants to look into the stands to see many people cheering for his team. “It’s not a crazy competitive sport,” Gott said. “So you don’t have to worry about someone getting angry in the middle of the game”. The official start of the sea-
son began on March 4th. The varsity game versus Mountain Pointe was on the 8th. Desert Vista won with a final score of 3-2.
Point game,” said freshman player Rachel Walker. It is well-known that the Desert Vista school’s softball team has not always had the best turn out, but this year they have had plenty of people try out. So despite how much they practice for each game, lets hope for the best!
Q: How long have you played baseball? A: 13 years Q: Do you play any other sports? A: I run cross country and next year I’m staring football Q: What inspired you to play baseball? A: My dad played baseball when he was a kid and he wanted me to play, so I started and I liked it Q: Would you like to go pro? A: Yes Q: Would you like to make Junior Varsity next year? A: Yes Q: Do you play club baseball? A: Yes I do Q: What position do you play? A: 2nd and outfield Q: What kind of championships have you won? A: I won four championships in club and last year we won the district championship at Akimel A-al Q: What college do you plan on going to? A: Arizona State University, Barrett the Honors College at ASU Q: Who is your role model? A: Mark McGwire Q: How tall are you? A: 5’6 Q: What is your weight? A: 140 Q: What do you like to do when your not playing baseball? A: I like cars, hanging out with friends, and playing other sports Q: Do sports interfere with your schoolwork? A: Yes, actually I stay up till 1 am doing homework Q: If you did not play base ball what would you play? A: Probably football Q: Do you ever want more free time? A: Yes, I would love it
Bump, set, spike: Volleyball season has set off with a bang. by Alec Boucher
Staff Writer The DV volleyball team is ready to go all the way to the finals and bring home a trophy. Coach Ryan Tolman wants more people to come help lead the volleyball team to the finals. “It’s a fast, exciting, and fun sport to watch,” Tolman said. “We finished in the top four three out of four years, so the team is always working hard.” “The kids who play are all athletic and ready to
Ellie Bell/The View
Featured Athlete and baseball player,Jarod Bernat
REAR VIEW
8
The View March 2011
A brighter look on your future
Students are taking advantage of classes that adhere to career pathways in order to reach their goals. by Melissa Dean Staff Writer
At the sound of a high-pitched C note, a scalpel cuts and the flash of a camera ignites. These are the things that are building student’s future dreams, for the classes that they are taking today. DV has a variety of classes, from Physics to Film Studies, to T.V. Production and Ceramics. When choosing their schedules, many of our students already have pretty strong ideas on what they want to become in life, so they decide to choose classes that will benefit their future. The specific classes that they take, give them a better idea and a close-up vision of what their dream job will consist of. For example, at the very end of the A building, most of us have heard faint voices in the distance, wondering what that sound is. You walk in, and boom! The classroom is filled with high, low, and soft voices all singing together as one. Choir on campus has been very successful for years. Many students who are currently taking Choir, dream of pursuing music in their future. Madi Milbourn, a member of Choir, smiles her bright smile and sings her heart out as she follows the teacher’s instructions. “I’m currently taking Choir, and I love it! I’m looking forward to having a musical background in my future, such as singing, because I really love to sing and music is just simply amazing all around,” said Milbourn. As you enter the C building and a science classroom, you may see students constructing experiments, scientific models, or even dissecting organisms. Students, who have a knack for
Sophomore Madi Milbourn (below) dreams of being on Biology and how the body works, espethe big stage. Sophomore Joseph Steigerwald (right) cially the body of animals, try and take as dreams of becoming a photojournalist or a studio portrait many science classes as they can get their photographer and takes Photo to help his dreams push hands on. Knowing how an animal’s body through. Kristy Bonham, sophomore, functions and why is what these students wishes become a Veterinarian. are here to figure out, could lead towards the path of becoming a Veterinarian. “Right now, I’m taking Honors Biology and I am planning on taking Human Anatomy next year, because of my interest of becoming a Veterinarian when I grow up. Taking these classes will help me to pursue my interest in animals,” said sophomore Kristy Bonham. Photography is a special form of art that captures many students’ interests. Students that are interested in this form of art take as many art classes as they can, specializing in photography. Our Photo classes provide an inside look of what photography is all about. Students who want to pursue being a photographer later in their lives fill their schedules with art. “I’m currently taking Photography because I love taking photos and make things look pretty. Photography will help me pursue in my career of either being a photojournalist or a studio portrait photographer when I grow up,” said sophomore Joseph Steigerwald. In many of the student’s futures, once high school is a thing of the past and college applications are an object of the present, colleges will look upon their past classes that they have taken, and help them major in their dream career. Everyone has interests, whether it’s with helping others, inventing new things, or even helping to fight crime. We know that we Michelle want to Coro/ makeThe ourView dreams come true, so why not start now? It’s never too late to begin dreaming.
Melissa Dean/ The View
Dr. Battle is a candidate for the new superintendent of TUHSD by Roseana Cruz
ent Superintend (below) lf do A ve Ste year. is th g in is retir beis ) Battle (right as ed er id ns co ing t. en em his replac
Editor-in-Chief
Michelle Coro/ The View
Do not panic if you have heard rumors that Dr. Battle is leaving- this is not necessarily true. The real story is, beloved principle, Dr. Anna Battle, has been selected as a candidate to replace the current superintendent of the Tempe Union High School District. Occupying the position since 2007, Superintendent Steve Adolf announced his retirement this past November. To replace Adolf, the board selected Battle along with 6 other candidates at a meeting on March 2nd. Interviews are scheduled for March 21st. This is an exciting opportunity for Battle that could potentially result in big changes for Desert Vista.
Shannon Masel/ The View