Huntley High School's Voice Feb. 27 Issue

Aryon Shariati

Alyssa Debock

HUNTLEY HIGH SCHOOL

13719 Harmony Rd.

the

Huntley, IL 60142 (847) 659-6600 @huntleyvoice huntleyvoice.com

VOICE Feb. 27, 2015 Volume 18, Issue 5

Amanda Kinsley

THE

Kay Meyer

MEANING OF

Life

Cassidy Kurkewitz

Eric Crest

Carlos Aldape Jr.

2

MEANING OF LIFE

february 27 2015

Meaning of Life Issue

Every year since 2007, The Voice has published a Meaning of Life issue. The Meaning of Life issue, is a cross section of Huntley High School. Students, staff, and community members are interviewed giving readers insight on their unique perspectives and insights on life.

Matt Blain Dreamer

“I think that’s the most important thing, for someone to follow their dreams.”

interviewed by ryan mills // staff writer

your mistakes and that’s how you succeed in the future. There is a lot of things I fail at because I know I didn’t try. So I regret that, looking back like what could have happened if I would have tried and gave it my all.

My favorite show is “South Park” because they tie in real world events in humorous ways.

I like the way that they don’t really choose a side but they just rip on both sides of a current issue topic.

If I could live in any time, period I would live during the ‘50s because I feel like that generation that came back from World War II had so much ambition. I feel like that generation grew so much and built this country significantly in that period of time.

I think that we should be able to give everybody the opportunity of free will. I don’t think anybody should be bound to an aristocratic or communist government….freedom is a huge thing and everyone should be able to have the opportunity at individualism and free will.

Senior Matt Blain holds his bat tightly and waits for the ball to come (courtesy of M. Blain).

My Dad gave me some advice last night: “Life is too short to sit there and think about it.” I don’t really think about the future too much. I just kinda do what is handed to me right now, like school, I know the things that are going to help me for the future so I’m just going to let life take me where I am meant to go.

I don’t skip Taylor Swift songs because I have no shame and I really do enjoy her music.

She has a great voice and I can dance to her music and have fun with it.

If I could give any advice to an incoming freshman it would be to not worry about the social side of high school.You’re going to find a friend group somewhere if you get involved.

It’s definitely better to fail than to not try at all. You don’t want to live without knowing you tried something.You learn from

If I had 10 minutes to talk to the whole world I would tell them to not be so accepting of what they have, I would to tell them to find their ambitions and follow their dreams.

I think that’s the most important thing, for someone to follow their dreams. I think that when someone does that and they find success in that, it makes them and everyone around them happy.

I do a lot of crazy things, but the craziest thing I do is when I’m conditioning and I push myself so hard to where I’m about to fall over, but I don’t. I get into this mind set that keeps me going even if I may not want to.

If I could have any superpower I would want to fly! That would be the best. I feel like it would give you the ability to just be free.

february 27 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

Claudine Garcia

3

Lover “I have a roof over my head, I’m blessed with a great family.”

interviewed by cullen walsh // staff writer

My favorite cartoon is Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. I love it because in the middle of all the mindless violence and banter, the show gets me emotional with all the life lessons you can take away from it.

I would love to live as a teenager in the 1950s or ‘60s. Basically the time period my parents lived in- with a lack of technology, and focusing on spending more time with my family.

I wish for people to understand that they’re never alone. I wish there was a way for people to embrace who they are, and not having to worry what others think, or to have to feel as if no one is there for them.

If I had only 24 hours to live, I would immediately take mine and my boyfriend’s family to the Philippines. I haven’t seen my extended family in nearly 10 years… I would do anything to spend that day with them.

Being as fortunate as I am with my life brings me the most joy. I have a roof over my head, I’m blessed with a great family, I’m surrounded by amazing friends, and I have a wonderful boyfriend.

ALPHA DENTAL 10886 N Route 47 (Huntley Towers) Huntley, Il 60142 Dr. John Laftsidis DDS

847-669-6533

I like the autumn because all of the trees turn pretty colors, the boots, the leggings, scarves, and cardigans come out, too. The weather is in a decent balance. I love when the sun is out with a bit of breeze.

My role model while I was growing up would either be my grandmother or my dad.

I can’t decide between the both of them because my dad reflects the personality of my grandma, and vice versa. They both taught me to be true to myself, and to push myself even when I was at my breaking point. The both of them have the biggest hearts in my family.

A good friend would be understanding, supportive, open-minded, strong-willed, respecting, trustworthy, and honest. They’re always willing to listen to whatever hardships or happy moments you’re going through.

I would just love to take all of my friends on a summer getaway, really. We’d find an old school bus and refurnish the inside with

beds and entertainment, so we could all take a cross-country trip and just do whatever came our way. It sounds kinda reckless, but I think it’d be so much fun!

I’d like to be a nurse practitioner. The medical field was the only field I fell in love with, probably because it was the only field I was exposed to as a child.

I was born and lived in Bensenville, which is about 17 miles out from Chicago. When I was 3 or 4 years old, I moved to Lake in the Hills. My family’s house was being built at the time. My parents wanted it to be the only full brick house on the street, and it still is.

I had a stuffed toy Piglet from Winnie the Pooh that I still have in my room. It was given to me when I was born, and I loved reading books and watching Winnie the Pooh. I took him everywhere I went, and even though he’s all dirty my mom tried to clean him up as much as she could.

4

MEANING OF LIFE

Alyssa Debock

february 6, 2015

Hard worker “I love reading, I love anything that is educational.”

interviewed by palak patel // staff writer

I consider myself agnostic because, to me, it’s just as foolish to say that there is absolutely no God or higher power, as it is to say that there is only just one specific, correct religion.

I want to go into music education, but I also lean towards psychology. People are fascinating.

I feel weird saying this because I know so many girls want kids and a family, but I feel like I could also see myself not having kids. I would be more career-oriented.

I’ve always been a complete nerd at heart. I love reading. I love anything that’s educational. I love school. I love art. I just started theater this year and I love it. It feels like home to me.

People tell me that I always hum. I don’t even know I’m doing it.

My mom’s chicken noodle soup is amazing.

I think I would want to live here in Illinois. It’s funny because everyone says they hate it here and that it’s boring. But I really feel like everyone just says that because they’re used to what they have and no one really appreciates where they live because they’ve been



Sophomore Alyssa DeBock stands underneath the music sign (R. O’Sullivan).

there for so long.

What I think about the future is slightly concerning. I feel like every grade says this, but the grades after us just keep getting worse and worse. I think children are beginning to have this weird desire to grow up a lot quicker than they should.



I feel like our generation is almost taught to be selfcentered. It’s almost always about you.You study so you can go to college.You do this so this can happen for you.Your parents are helping you get this for you.

Sometimes we’re so focused on ourselves and we forget to think about others.

       I want to go to Holland. They  have amazing tulip fields. I would  love to be standing in the middle  of the field. I’d have to take a  lot of Benadryl before I went, 



because I have pollen allergies, but I wouldn’t mind.

The meaning of life is taking natural talents and using them to help people.

I’d say my biggest mistake was trying to be something I wasn’t. When I was younger, I would just try to fit in with the wrong groups of people.

I don’t want to be like this great person, but if I can help some people, that’s enough.

I used to change myself because I wasn’t secure with who I was. I thought that if I did this or if I looked like that, then I would gain confidence. But confidence doesn’t come from your appearance at all, it comes from who you are as a human being.

I would like to think that we aren’t just a bag of bones and chemicals and there isn’t a soul. I would like to think that, but I don’t tell myself that just for the sake of comfort. If we die and that’s just it, I couldn’t tell you.You just have to find out what happens.

february 27 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

Makombo Tizora

5

Activist

“We need to love everyone. White, Black, Hispanic it doesn’t matter.”

interviewed by adam reckamp // edior-in-chief

I have British cousins, Australian cousins; I have cousins that live in Texas, and other family all over the world. It’s pretty neat. Most of my family has moved out of Zimbabwe, there is still a little there, but most of my family is scattered across the globe. They all moved for better opportunities and jobs elsewhere.

I moved to the States when I was about 1 year old. My Dad’s job transferred over here so we moved to a small town in Southern Illinois and lived there for about eight years. We moved up here my freshman year.

I was born with an extra finger and an extra toe. The doctor in Zimbabwe tied a rope around each of them and pulled them off.

Being around family is my favorite thing.

Seeing them happy makes me happy.

Makombo Tizora holds a basketball to show his love for the sport (R. O’Sullivan).

I’m a cat person. I really love cats, I’m a cuddler.

We need to love everyone. White, Black, Hispanic it doesn’t matter.

I believe in God, I’m a Catholic. My religion makes me a better person every day. It makes me try to be kind to everyone and to do onto others as I would do onto myself.

Ketchup, ham, cheese, and mayo is my favorite sandwich, it’s weird but I really like it.

I used to collect my toenails when I was a little kid.

Looney Toons are the best. I love Daffy Duck he’s a weird guy.

I was born in Zimbabwe. Going back there was cool because I didn’t really remember it and seeing where I was from was a really good experience.

If I could go back in time, I would go back to the Bible days when Jesus was alive. It would be great to see the miracles he did.

I love South Africa. It’s really sunny and nice and tropical all the time.

If I knew the whole world was listening I would tell the world we need to stop all the war.

Chicken Parmesan is the best of both worlds. It’s got pasta and chicken. That’s why it’s the best.

The best kind of chicken is obviously fried chicken.

I would rather fail at something then never attempt it because at least then I know I tried.

I didn’t really talk to my grandma a lot and when she died I really regretted not getting to know her better.

Education in America is not broken for those that work really hard and put in the effort. The problem with education is the students, not the system.

I worry about not being able to accomplish anything meaningful in my life before I die.

I have a huge family. Both of my grandmas had at least 10 kids so I have a ton of cousins.

Religion plays a huge role in my life. It makes my try to be a good person. I believe when you die you either go to heaven or hell depending on the way you treat others.

Going to England was my favorite vacation.

Seeing Big Ben and London was a great experience.

I want to be an electrical engineer when I grow up. I have always been interested in design and improving things and with electrical engineering; you do that for a living.

When I was in fourth grade, my parents took me to a basketball camp and I really liked it. I’ve been into basketball ever since. It is such an exciting sport.You’re always doing something, unlike baseball where you can just stand for 30 minutes. Ball is life.

My parents were really strict on me as a kid, but they were very kind and loving.My role model is definitely my dad. He is a great guy, and I really look up to him. He came to America and worked so hard so my sister and I could have a better life.

I’m a really nice guy. I like to listen and I’m always there for my friends. That’s something I pride myself on.

6

MEANING OF LIFE

Abby Siefken

february 27 2015

Volunteer “I wanted to help make it easier for the freshmen to transition.”

interviewed by rachel brands // opinion editor I collect postcards. If my family goes away, then they give me postcards.

I go to Florida for Spring Break and I like how warm it is.

The craziest thing I’ve done is run into a freezing Fox Lake in my swimsuit in February for the Polar Plunge.

My grandma is my hero. She had to overcome so much after losing her eyesight. I can’t imagine life being completely blind. She is so strong. She doesn’t let it stop her. My grandpa sticks by her and takes care of her.

My mom doesn’t work, but my dad does.

My dad really cares for me, but he’s more quiet than my mom. My mom says a lot of stuff and it gets on my nerves, but I always love her.

I’ve been lucky that I haven’t had any major traumatic experiences, but it was nerve wracking when my swim cap ripped seconds before my event at sectionals freshman year.

I’m involved in the school a lot. I’m in Baking Club, NHS, and I did the varsity swim team

freshman and sophomore year.

My biggest mistake is probably not swimming this year. I thought homework was going to be such a big deal and then it turned out to calm down. I feel like I could have handled it.

National Honor Society is about scholarship, Junior Abby Siefkin shows off one of the dogs she walks at the Huntley Animal Shelter (courtesy leadership, of A. Siefkin) service, and character. I was inducted into and community service. As a member, I attend meetings and volunteer in the community.

NHS in the fall of 2014. It’s an honor to be a part of this national organization. It shows that I knew Link Crew would be fun and I wanted to help make it easier for the freshmen to transition to high school.

I have the required GPA and I am involved in school activities My freshman experience influenced my choice a lot! I went to a small private school all my life and my Link Crew leaders helped me adjust to a big high school freshman year.

I joined Student Council freshman year to get to know people and get involved. This is my third year. I participate in committees and help plan events. I also decorate the display case and do community service.

I found out about it through the Community Service Club page. It’s the Animal House Shelter in Huntley. I walk the dogs. I usually go for a couple of hours and I walk many dogs while I’m there. I love to walk the dogs! There are all different breeds. I feel sorry for them. They don’t have a home and it’s nice to spend time with them. I don’t need to get paid.

Treat others how you would want to be treated with kindness and respect. Don’t let the mean girls bother you.

Nothing really holds me back. Just be more friendly.

february 27 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

Cedar Ridge Dental Advancing the Art of Dentistry

For a smile that speaks volumes, see Dr. Nguyen and Dr. Dang at Cedar Ridge Dental, where they will provide you with a comfortable and friendly atmosphere, and enhance your smile to a brilliant perfection.

Services Family and Cosmetic Dentistry • Whitening • Bonding • Veneers • Gum Treatment • Fillings

For a free complimentary exam, please call:

847.854.0525

2110 West Algonquin Rd., Lake In The Hills,

Tons of HD-TVs & Projection Screens, Award Winning Wings, Full Menu 20+ Signature Sauces & Seasonings, Daily Lunch Specials Starting at $6.99 Free WiFi, Free Buzztime® Trivia, Family Friendly Dining & Open Late!

WING TUESDAYS®-60¢ BONELESS THURSDAYS® AND MONDAYS - 60¢ 99¢ KIDS MEALS-WEDNESDAYS

461 S. RANDALL RD. ALGONQUIN • 847-458-2333

5755 NORTHWEST HWY. CRYSTAL LAKE • 815-356-0333

7

8

MEANING OF LIFE

Aryon Shariati

february 27 2015

Soccer Player

“My pet peeve is when the number on the TV or radio is an odd number.” interviewed by charlie vavrick // staff writer I will put anything on a sandwich. I’m not a weak sauce on my sandwiches. I will see two pieces of bread and think to myself, I want a sandwich. Then, I will open my fridge. Turkey, hot dog, the rice from last night. Literally, anything that counts as some sort of a meat and a vegetable, I’ll eat it on a sandwich.

My last meal on earth would be Khoresh de Bademjan. It is an Iranian dish. It’s an eggplant and beef shank stew. It’s kind of gross looking, but it tastes like heaven and when you pour it over rice and eat it, your face melts.

I worry about my future. I worry about if I will be where I want to be, if I will accomplish all that I want to. That’s what keeps me up at night. I don’t wake up in cold sweats about it, but I do recognize my anxiety over the subject.

I plan to go into a 6-year accelerated premed program. Hopefully, I can major in cardiology. I’m still deciding if I want to be a general cardiologist or a cardiac surgeon. That depends on if I decide to go through more schooling to become a surgical technician.

Bay Hill Dental Need a whiter smile? Or just a simple cleaning? Come on in and keep those teeth shining bright!

Hours: M-F: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sa/Su: Closed 12171 Regency Square Pkwy.

Huntley 847-669-6400

I don’t have a lot of spare time with my schedule, but when I do I relax and bide my time until my next soccer practice or it is time for homework. Generally, I will play on my tablet or watch YouTube and relax a little.

My favorite class in high school has been Human Body Systems with Mr. Robinson. I loved learning about all the function of the human body, it was crazy fun for me.

Jungle by X Ambassadors is my jam. It is my motivational song before games, my chill song, it pumps me up, and chills me out. It’s a perfect song, and it is always playing on my iPod. I speak Farsi fluently, but if you know me you would know that. Within the first 3 hours of talking to me, I tell people where I am from.

It’s a major part of me and I like people to know about.

My grandma on my mother’s side is freakishly good at Jeopardy. She is actually amazing. She gets like 99 percent of the questions right. If she went on Jeopardy, she would be at least a million dollars richer. Every day, when I get home, our TV is Ellen and Jeopardy.

She runs the TV for those two shows.

My pet peeve is when the number on the TV or radio is on an odd number. It can only be a multiple of two or five, but if it’s like 14, 15 is better because it’s like a half rather than just 14. Don’t judge me.

In karate, when they call your attendance, you say “Ous,” it’s Japanese for whatever. So in school when they call your name, the teacher said, “Aryon” and I replied “Ous,” out of habit, and everyone looked at me, and it was really, really, awkward. Everyone is just like here, here, here, and then I said “Ous.” It was really weird.

If I could make the world listen for five minutes, I would advise them to act with more compassion and faith because otherwise we will continue on the current path leading to an arid and bleak future.

Shariati with his favorite soccer equipment (Courtesy by B. Frey).

You have to know what you are going to succeed at. If you fail, and you fail, and you fail, you should probably look for something else. It’s all right to try something and know that you’re bad at it, but don’t make a habit of trying that same thing over and over again.

If I actually was what I ate, I would be a pile of assorted Iranian foods.

The education system in America isn’t the best. Our average test scores, as a country, are well below that of top nations.

If I could do one thing to fix it, I would stop teachers from teaching to the test. I’d rather be taught to learn than taught to do well on a test.

february 27 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

Amanda Kinsley

9

Pageant Contestant

“My greatest achievement so far is probably making it into the Illinois State Pageant.” interviewed by cierra felton // staff writer

don’t go there.You’re better than that. Don’t lower your standards just because you don’t think you can make it.”

I did two pageants for National American Miss. I work with an agency for modeling and acting. I also took classes with that same agency to learn those skills. My greatest achievement so far is probably making it into the Illinois State Pageant for National American Miss or being signed with my modeling and acting agency.

My prized possession would be the necklace that my sister gave me because I don’t really get to see her so it’s special to me. It’s like I’m carrying a piece of her with me every time I wear it.

When I was little I used to be really shy.

Even at family parties I would be attached to my mom’s hip. But now I’m pretty outgoing and just do my own thing.

“My prized possession would be the necklace my sister gave to me because I don’t really get to see her so it’s special to me.”

Don’t be afraid to be who you are. Don’t be shy. Find people who are like you and don’t try to change yourself just to impress them and get them to be your friend.

-Amanda Kinsley When people tell you that high school is going to be the best four years of your life, it can be very true and it can also be very false.

For me it was the best time of my life so far.

You just have to do what you want to do and don’t follow the crowd because half the time the crowd does things you don’t want to do.

Just follow what you want to do and it will be the best four years of your life.

My dream job is actually what I’m going to school for. I want to be a neurologist because I think the brain is pretty interesting and I want to know how it works. My favorite class is

Amanda Kinsley poses with flowers after her pagent (courtesy of A. Kinsley).

Biology, because I want to major in Science.

The best advice I have gotten was when I was trying to pick colleges and I told my aunt that I want to go to NIU and she said “no,

“I want to be a neurologist because I think the brain is pretty interesting and I want to know how it works.”

-Amanda Kinsley If I had a million dollars, I could be selfish but I do owe my parents a lot of money from over the years. Then I’d spend the rest on me and cross off items on my bucket list. I want to have a long movie night, 24 hours straight of just really good movies. Also, I want to go on road trips with my friends. I want to live in a different country for a year or so then come back.

My hero is Demi Lovato because she was in the spotlight as a little kid and fought through depression and eating disorders. She still is in the spotlight but she hasn’t completely broken down. She got help and she never got into drugs like every other Disney star.

My role model growing up was my sister because she grew up not caring what people thought. She did her own thing. At the time, no one was really a tomboy but she didn’t care and she dressed in guy clothes anyways.

10

MEANING OF LIFE

February 27 2015

Katie Haberkorn Equestrian

“I have different opinions on things than normal people would.” interviewed by chris sawalski // staff writer I would like to live somewhere in Montana so I could have a farm and ride my horse everywhere.

I have different opinions on things than normal people would, some girls gossip a lot, I usually stay out of that. Riding horses is not usual, I think only four people in our school do that.

I went to nationals and won. I cried when they announced my name.

I wish I could read people’s minds so that I could never have to guess what people are thinking, and I could see if people are talking crap about me.

It’s worse to never attempt something than to never try, because if you fail you can try again, if you never try you’ll never know.

Sometimes I’m worried about what people think. If people laugh at me I’m embarrassed. That’s one of my weak spots, and yeah it gets to me, but I know I’m going to get through it.

I would change murder. People that die have a family. I don’t like seeing people going through that loss knowing that they didn’t die from natural causes.

I would love to have dinner with my grandma. She died when I was a baby, so I didn’t experience the loss. My family talks very highly of her. She always loved me and never put me down as a baby.

Do not worry about anybody else, just live your life for yourself. In high school you’re never going to see half these people at the end of it If I knew I was going to die tommorow, I would go sky diving, ziplining, scuba diving, riding horses. It’s something that I’ve never done before, try to get that adrenaline rush.

I worry about my little sisters growing up in our society. Looking at girls now, younger and younger, they’re not really respecting themselves. We all dress different but some think that the way to get a guy is to put themselves out there for everybody to see. I don’t want my little sisters growing up like that because that’s not something I want them to be doing.

Haberkorn posing with her favorite horse (Courtesy of K. Haberkorn).

Not staying in touch with my old friends is probably my biggest mistake. I started talking to them off and on, they were good friends, so it’s hard to say goodbye and I tried to stay in touch, but it’s hard when you move on.

I believe education is broken. They tell you to be creative on projects, but they give you these strict rules and rubrics that you have to follow. Everyone’s learning is different and I don’t think they take that into consideration. I think they should let you do whatever project you want as long as it’s on the topic and you’re learning the material. I think they could make education more fun for people because a lot of people don’t do their work because they are bored of it.

I really want to go to college and it’s going to be hard to get into and a lot of work. I think it will help me and also be a lot of fun. I’ve been looking into colleges since freshman year, I started going to college visits last year.

Haberkorn enjoying a recent competition (Courtesy of K. Haberkorn).

february 27 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

Kay Meyer

11

Explorer “Happy is a constant questioning of yourself.”

interviewed by camille paddock // staff writer

get out of people.

I travel and I see things that are just unexplainable that I believe God’s hand is in. I’ve seen Him do things for me, within me, and I just feel his presence.

I’ve failed many times, and I think with my age I just learned that it’s going to happen.

Failure is an option, but you just get up and you laugh and you regroup and you carry on, because I always want to be participating in the game of life. I don’t ever want to be on the sidelines watching it, it’s too much fun.

One of the things I enjoy most is a good story. Everyone has one, but some are hard to

Happy is a constant questioning of yourself.

   

Self - Defense Boxing Kickboxing

The Official WAKO Training Center

Wrestling

Desserts, and things like that.

They need to be eaten slowly and for a good reason. If you’re going to put those kind of calories in your body you might as well enjoy them.

I remember we lived on a strawberBring in this coupon and receive a 10% discount on tuition ry farm, and when it 11320 Kiley Dr., Huntley, IL 60142 rained and the fields (847) 669 - 7833 www.teamzs.com got super muddy and

Meyer relaxing and reading her favorite novel, “The Lords of Discipline” (R. O’Sullivan).

wet, we would strip down to our underpants and we would just run and slide like it was the longest slip n’ slide ever.

Everyone should get out there to travel, and maybe if they saw the beauty in people then [they] wouldn’t be so selfish, mean, snotty, and self absorbed.

Life is always about taking a risk, taking a chance, playing the game. Get off the bench, get in with it, get on with it, go for it, and if you fail, well, you’re suppose to fail. Some of your best lessons will be when you fail. Failing, not that it’s fun, but there sure are some valuable little tidbits that come out of it.

The biggest mistake I made is probably that I thought I wanted to raise cows. I realized that you’re not a cow farmer, you’re a grass farmer. So I put the cows before the grass and they were hungry.

We seem to be in such a structured format that society pushes down our throats that we go to high school then we go to college, we get the job, we get married, we have kids, and I just think there’s so much more as far as adventure.

I don’t know if education is broken, I think our work ethic is broken. Our values are broken, our drive, we’re not hungry. We look for people to take care of us and to coddle us and to tell us how great and wonderful we are, when in actuality, we’re doing very little.

   

Self - Defense Boxing Kickboxing

The Official WAKO Training Center

Wrestling

Bring in this coupon and receive a 10% discount on tuition 11320 Kiley Dr., Huntley, IL 60142 (847) 669 - 7833 www.teamzs.com

Never stop learning, loving, and doing. A body in motion stays in motion.You’ve got to keep going after it. If you get stuck it’s all right to be in neutral, but don’t go backwards. Keep moving forward.

12

MEANING OF LIFE

Eric Crest

February 27 2015

Cynic “World domination is on my bucket list.”

interviewed by mawa iqbal // news editor

I outgrew believing in God when I outgrew believing in Santa Claus.

I don’t go Black Friday shopping because I don’t feel like getting tazed by some 350-pound mom.

I’ve realized that I go to a school with a bunch of people who will go to prison for a variety of things. There’s a good chance that somebody in this room will die in a DUI accident.

We don’t have souls. We rot in the ground after we die. It’s just like before you were born, it’s nothing.

I was a Nazi experiment gone horribly wrong. I was frozen in the Soviet Union, and in 1996, I was unfrozen and I’ve been ruining people’s lives ever since.

The government is like a car crash, I want to look away but I’m so mesmerized by it that I can’t.

I’m a huge Katy Perry fan. I’m like a Katy cat.

The worst dogs are better than the best cats.

Cats are cute but if you have a stroke, they’ll eat you.

My advice to incoming freshmen: the next four years are going to suck so just deal with it. Keep your expectations low so you won’t be disappointed when you don’t reach them.

If I am what I eat, then I would be road kill.

Get rich or die trying, like the song by 50 Cent, is the motto I live by.

My favorite movie of all time would be Wolf of Wall Street because it’s about a character that I want to be like in life.

My favorite number is zero because that’s how many friends I have.

I’m obsessed with politics, especially since

Eric Crest proudly posing with the American Flag (B. Frey).

I came into high school. Part of me thinks that I’d do a better job than most politicians, while part of me just wants to be one of the talking heads you see on CNN, and spew nonsense and have no one challenge you.

I’m mostly Swedish, but there’s nothing really special about that. Not even Swedish people are proud of being Swedish.

I’d like to streak during halftime at the superbowl.

My happiest childhood memory would be when I got my first dog, Sophie.

My least favorite movie would be anything based on a Nicholas Sparks novel because in reality, someone’s going to hit you if you can’t get through all of your depression stages.

I remember when I was 2 and I was taken to the local police station because someone saw me wandering alone in the park and called the police.

When I was in third grade I wanted to be like Brett Favre. Back then, I didn’t realize how terrible of a human being his is.

Every night I watch Gossip Girl and cry myself to sleep.

february 27 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

Jillian Jenkins

13

Dancer

“I’d want Mike Walker with me because I need someone to complain to.” interviewed by kat gorospe // staff writer The top three things on my bucket list are to be a back up dancer for Beyoncé, number two, it sounds cliché but, travel the world, and three, own a white Range Rover when I’m 26.

If I were stranded on a beach, I would bring Cheez-Its, mouthwash, and my iPod. I’d want Mike Walker with me because I need someone to complain to and he would be the only one to handle my complaining.

My heroes are my grandparents. They have been through so much and they are the happiest people I have ever met and I love them more than anything.

My grandma had Hodgkin’s Lymphoma when I was little and my parents and I lived with them while our house was getting built.

I’ve seen a lot that went on and I just give all my respect to them.

My greatest fear is birds because I was attacked by one when I was a kid. I was downtown with my grandma and I was eating a sandwich, then the bird attacked my face to

Jenkins practices a routine with her fellow dancers (J. PIske).

get the sandwich.

The best part about being on the Raiders Dance Team is that you get to perform at most of the games and you make some great friends.

I also love competitions.

The hardest part for me this year is that I have to leave the new friends I’ve made and move on to college.

HUNTLEY COLLISION CENTER 11914 W. Main St.

Huntley

Choose Excellence!

Pickup & Delivery Semis, RVs, Boats Free Estimates Insurance On-site Estimating

847-669-5260

Lifetime Warranty!

My first [college] choice is University of Kentucky. I am planning on majoring in nursing I hope to make the dance team there.

I think anyone would be nervous trying out for a college team but I went there in December and I got a video bypass so I can go straight to tryouts. That helped my nerves calm down a little.

I’ve been dancing for 12 years. I used to dance all the time as a kid and so my parents thought it would be a good idea to put me in dance classes.

My best friend is Rachel Grano and we met at Dance Force. We started talking because I asked her if I could play her DS. We have never danced without each other. We are so close that the arguments we have last for about 10 minutes.

My best memory from Dance Force is when my dance team got third place at Worlds. It was at Disney World in Orlando, Fla. It is a two-day event and one of the best experiences ever.

You see teams from all around the world and you get to meet them. It’s so awesome.

Getting top three was the greatest feeling ever because it was the first time my team and I went to Worlds and we are going again this year.

14

MEANING OF LIFE

february 27 2015

Edward Ferrante Optimist

“The closer you are to death, the more alive you feel.” interviewed by nate montoya // staff writer Always look on the bright side of things in bad situations, even if you can’t see it.

It really does help if you look at the brighter side of things, because you learn to appreciate things more.

The first time after my second ACL surgery, I got on a treadmill for the first time and it just brought a smile to my face being able to run again.

The closer you are to death, the more alive you feel.

A wise man can learn more from his enemies than a fool can from his friends.

By biggest pet peeve is seeing people not grateful for the things that they have.

True happiness is being content with your life, being at a point of complete bliss.

In a sense, we are only here for the time being. Humans really don’t know anything.

The wolf can travel in a pack, and the wolf can travel alone. The wolf does what it wants to do.

My favorite holiday is not Valentine’s Day, because Valentine’s Day is a materialistic holiday.

We are pretty much passing through the dimension of life with these beings that so happen to be there with you. Life just goes.

Ferrante leans against his Mustang (J. Piske).

Just keep on living and always live your life to the fullest because you have been given the gift of life.

Christmas. It’s a great holiday if you emphasize on the giving and worry less about receiving.

By age 17 I’ve already had three knee surgeries… something that ruined my athletic career.

I would wipe away prejudice because it is a waste of time to hate and judge a human being that isn’t doing anything wrong.

Go

I would live somewhere on an island in the

middle of nowhere.

I would tell the world to open its eyes, and realize the fact that we need to evolve ourselves and not just focus on money and materialistic things.

If you never attempt to do something you may never have the chance to succeed at it.

My biggest mistake would be dropping people out of my life who actually cared about me.

I like losing myself in the song and believing in the hope that one day you can just move people by the power of your words.

Ra

The most joy in my life comes from my friends.

ide

rs!

12531 Regency Parkway, Huntley Huntley Hampshire Lake in the Hills Visit www.moffettpt.com for more information

Medicare and Most Insurance Accepted

I think that we just leave this dimension that we are in now, and find out what happens from there on out.

Elgin

Saturday, Early Morning & Evening Appointments

The purpose of life is to achieve great things and leave a legacy behind.

Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.

february 27 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

Matt Liberatore

15

Former Model

“A hobby is something you do to pass the time while a passion is something that extincts time.” interviewed by jess clavero // design editor How many people do you know wake up every morning and are like, ‘Ugh, I have to go to work.’ Isn’t it sad when you think about it?

I mean, you’re talking 40 years of this! Could you imagine if everyone could just find their passion and how much happier people would be?

I have built five different houses on five different continents. I’ve done India, I’ve done Chile, which is South America, Guatemala, which is North America, there’s Kenya up top there in Africa, and then Hungary.

Passion is in two areas. One, in the work area, it’s finding something that you do as a profession or a career and it doesn’t feel like work. Two, the other thing about following your passion.

My other passions are fitness-wise. I can tell you right now, I am in better shape at 37 than I was when I was 25.

Up until I was 19, I was 280 pounds with a 42-inch waist. I lost all the weight and I actually started modeling down in Florida. I did a photoshoot for Kodak International, so basically when you got the camera, you open up

Liberatore shows a picture of himself after he built a house in Kenya (J. Piske).

the instructions and they show you the little sample pictures. There I was.

I truly believe people should go and experience their interests and things they enjoy and follow them. I’ve got a clarinet performance major, but I still have a job.You can get your master’s in whatever you want.

I guess that’s the other part of it is that you want to follow opportunities so that at the end of the day, you’re not asking yourself, ‘would have, could have, should have.’

A hobby is something you do to pass the time while a passion is something that extincts time.

“I have built five different houses on five different continents. I’ve done India, I’ve done Chile, which is South America, Guatemala, which is North America, there’s Kenya up top there in Africa, and then Hungary. I’m actually going to Hungary in June to build another house again,” -Matt Liberatore

‘The world makes way for the man who knows where he’s going.’ I feel like it means it doesn’t matter where you’re going or what you’re doing, if you have a plan and if you have an idea and if you explore your passions, your interests, then the world is yours.

I don’t know if I have any regrets because I like to think that everything that happens to you opens up doors to different areas that maybe weren’t what you expected early on.

There was a student. We’ll call her Sally.

Sally comes up to me and says, at Prom, ‘Oh my God, Mr. Liberatore, I’m so excited.You told me not to take Spanish my senior year and to take art because I told you I love art.’

I just said to her, ‘You know, if you really don’t want to take it, don’t take it. Take something you love.’ She took art. Now she loved art and was deciding to major in it. I thought about that. It was one of those conversations that I didn’t remember specifically.

I know the advice and the things I gave her seemed like something I would tell a student, but it just really hit me. It makes me realize that every conversation matters. The advice I give is truly what I would give myself. It’s authentic.

16

MEANING OF LIFE

Brent Pielstrom

february 27 2015

Candy lover

“I see life as a mystery. You don’t ever really know what is going to happen next.” interviewed by tyler lopez // staff writer I don’t really collect anything. I love all of the candies.

Someone should always try, not trying means you fail.

I have always liked a plain turkey sandwich.

People who don’t follow the rules are one of my biggest pet peeves.

I prefer music. I usually listen to whatever.

I would like to live anywhere warm, namely Florida.

I love cheese pizza.

I would want the ability to freeze time.

I like all of school, so it’s hard to pick one class.

Dog person. I’m allergic to cats. My two dogs, Tiger and Frankie, are my favorite animals.

Blue is my favorite color. I have alway liked the color blue.

I like to play video games in my free time, my prized possessions are my video games. I have always wanted to be a video game designer.

14 is my favorite number. It’s just a random number.

A dream weekend for me is playing my Lego video games.

My dream vacation is to go to Disney World in Florida.

My favorite tv show is ‘The Simpsons.’

It’s so funny!

My biggest achievement has to be starting high school.

My biggest fear has to be big, scary spiders.

If I’m what I eat, then I’m a lot of pizza and a lot of candy!

I prefer being hot.

My favorite childhood memory is getting my two dogs, Frankie and Tiger.

My family and I don’t really follow religion. I believe more in science when it comes to God and religion.

I worry most about failing a class or not doing my best in any of my classes.

Since I have started high school, I have become more social. I am pretty happy to have become more

Pielstrom stands in front of his locker with his arms crossed (J.Piske).

I like Halloween, mostly because of the candy. I love candy.

Steele Dehmlow is my closest friend.

He’s caring, funny and trustworthy, just a good friend in general.

I think being shy holds me back a bit, but I have gotten more social and even have more friends.

-Brent Pielstrom

I see life as a mystery. You don’t ever really know what is going to happen next, but that is why it’s great too.

social. I have a lot more friends than I did back in elementary school.

My heroes have to be my parents. They have always helped and supported me.

I have always loved Legos. I like building whatever I want. Create a video game. That is definitely on my bucket list.

I plan on going to MCC. My brother goes there and I would be close to home and my family.

I really like technology. And I think it’s very important to be tech savvy. Especially nowadays with how fast it is moving.

Steele Dehmlow is my closest friend.

He’s caring, funny and trustworthy, just a good friend in general.

A good friend is someone who listens, is nice and who is just a cool person to be around.

To me, the meaning of life is to do something you love every day.

I don’t really live by mottos, but I aim to do different things every day to keep it interesting. Otherwise you end up doing the same thing every day.

february 27 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

Annika Bushman

17

Eclectic

“I’m an open book – I’ve got no secrets really.” interviewed by sarah henderson // print editor Do things that will make you happy before anyone else, you are the most important person in your life.

My greatest fear is kind of like a mix of things. But it’s mostly just like, this is going to sound weird, going up on a bridge in a car and it breaking, and being trapped underwater in that car. When I go over bridges that’s what I think about.

I just want to travel the world. Like I really want to go to London. I don’t know the whole culture… it’s just fun.

My favorite color is lavender, I don’t know.

I’ve always just liked that color. It’s just very cool.

I didn’t really dress up as anything when I was younger, but like every other child, I played school. That stuck with me because I’m thinking of going to school to become a teacher.

Bushman poses with her Avatar plush toys in her room (J. Piske).

I’d rather be cold only because you can layer up on clothes to make yourself warmer.

My favorite number is 15 because my birthday is on September 15 and it’s just a nice, solid number.

Probably time travel so you can go wherever you want. If you screw something up the day before you can go back and fix it.

[As my last meal I would] just keep it simple and go with pizza. The best pizza in the world. I would say the margarita pizza in Italy, it’s just regular cheese pizza.

My biggest pet peeve is if people purposely use incorrect grammar like they know it pisses me off, they just make me mad.

[I prefer] online shopping. It’s easier, and you don’t have to see people.

I’m an open book – I’ve got no secrets really.

“The amount of stress kids are under is ridiculous and causing kids to develop illnesses, and not just physical ones,” -Annika Bushman I really want to be a teacher, a high school teacher, math, just not calculus.

Kids these days are so stressed about getting homework done and staying up until 1 to 3 in the morning and only getting three to five hours of sleep. It’s not healthy and the amount of stress kids are under is ridiculous and causing kids to develop illnesses, and not just physical ones.

I kinda want to go back to the ‘90s just because people make a big deal out of it, and I want to see what it was like.You know I was 3 when it turned 2000.

True happiness is just having a good time with my friends. Simple, but happy.

Not to sound like a teenage white girl or anything but my favorite band would have to be One Direction because I’ve been a fan of them since 2011 and during middle school they were basically all I would listen to. Their music helped me get through some tough times.

Ignore what other people think of you, it doesn’t matter.

Do things for you, not for anyone else.

I think if they’re trustworthy and loyal to you and they’re there for you, I think they’re a good friend.

End any relationships that are negative because they take more out of you than they’re worth.

Just try your best. So if you don’t do well on something and you did your best, then it’s fine.

It’s from my mom.

18

MEANING OF LIFE

february 27 2015

Hello Tomorrow

The Path to College Success Starts Here The college admissions process can be a nail-biting experience. Sylvan’s ACT prep program can reduce your stress and increase test scores for one of the most important exams of your academic life.

YOU GET: *skills and strategies to score higher on the ACT *24/7 online access to thousands of video lessons *flexible scheduling *knowledgeable instructors who inspire students to perform at their capabilities Registration is now under way for the April National ACT Test! Call Today!

Free Practice ACT Test!

Mention this ad and you will receive a free practice ACT test. Offer for Juniors only. One practice test per student. Call the center to reserve your spot today.

Offer expires 6/15/2015

847.854.4436 sylvan.algonquin@sylvanlearning.com Building Skills for Better Scores

locations.sylvanlearning.com/us/algonquin-center-il

Professional Hair Studio

Ana M. Howard *Haircuts *Full Color *Shampoo *Highlights *Blowdry *Style *Perms ...and much more!

Hours

10 a.m.-7 p.m.

10 a.m.-7 p.m. (closed) 1 p.m.-7 p.m.

9 a.m.-7 p.m.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. (closed)

2316 Esplanade Dr. Suite #103 Algonquin, IL 60102

(Call for more information)

Tots

Advanced Boys

Pre-School

Tumbling Level 1

ages walking to 3 years with parent

ages 3-4 years without parent

Kindergym

ages 4-5 years without parent

Beg/Inter/Adv Girls

Sylvan Learning of Algonquin

Mon. Tues.

Wed. Thurs.

Fri. Sat. Sun.

10991 Ruth Road Huntley, IL 60142 Phone 847-659-1675

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY SE HABLA ESPANOL (630) 439 -5946 Facebook.com/proHairStudio1 cancun417@yahoo.com

ages 6-12 years

Learning carwheel, round off, backbend, back walkovers, front limber, flip flop, front handspring

Tumbling Level 2

ages 6-12 years

Learning round off flip flops, standing backs, round off flip flop back tuck/back layout, twisting, and front tucks

Office and Pro-Shop Hours- Mon.-Thurs.

9-6:30, Fri. 9-3, and Sat. 9-12

Open Gym- Wed. and Fri. 11:30-12:55, Sat 4-5:30, and Sun 3:15-4:45.

Birthday Parties Sat and Sun

ages 6-12 years

Beginner Boys

february 27 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

Jon Franzen

19

Mr. Positivity “I can run and nothing else matters.” interviewed by joe rizzo // staff writer I live with my mom and her friend Mary.

We live with Mary to help her out because she is getting older; she is like family. My dad died before I was born so I never got to meet him.

My mom works very hard and I would do anything for her. She is definitely my role model.

If I could go anywhere in the world, I would go to Hawaii with my mom. She deserves to live in paradise.

I love to run and I do track at the high school.

I run about one mile a day, seven days a week.

Running just makes me relax and makes me forget everything.You could say its my getaway.

If I could go to dinner with any five people I would only bring one. That one person would be my dad. I never got to meet him but I know he would be amazing.

My favorite thing about myself is that I do stuff on my own and I always earn my stuff.

If I could only have one thing in the world, it would be my track shoes. As long as I have these shoes, I can run and nothing else matters.

If I won the lottery, the first thing I would do would be to make sure my mom never had to work again. She has done a lot on her own and she deserves it.

One celebrity I would love to meet would be Tupac. He has always has been one of my favorite rappers. Music is a huge part of who I am. It feels like I am listening to music all the time.

The one thing I wish I could change about the world is how some people do not get to be as lucky as us. I wish people who do not know where their next meal is would be able to live like us.

Honestly, the one thing I love to do is make others happy. It really bothers me when people make fun of people because they are different.

When I’m older, I want to manage my own

Jon Franzen by his pickup truck in the school parking lot (M. Barchard).

business. I would give jobs to those who are not as fortunate as us. All I want is to give them another chance at life. If that doesn’t work out, I want to be a firefighter. I feel like this is a good way to give back to the community.

One thing I love about life is that you can have a bad day one time and then the next day you can have the greatest day of your life.

If I had to describe myself in words, it would be hard-working and fun. I feel like one thing that separates me from everyone else is that I have to earn everything I get; I don’t get handed a phone, I have to pay for my own. It’s what makes me Jon Franzen.

I look up to my mom being a single mother.

She works so hard and it really makes me want to work hard and be like her one day. She is truly amazing.

My favorite thing is being able to run and clear my mind from everything and really just forget about the world. It’s a great feeling.

20

MEANING OF LIFE

february 27 2015

Shannon Phillips

Thinker “That’s the kind of stuff that goes through my brain.” interviewed by courtney thomas // feature editor I think the thing that is really important for people to do is dream big. Think about the possibilities that are out there for you, but those things can only be possibilities if you can meet those standards. So opening more doors is really important and that starts in high school. It starts with the classes you take and the things you learn that make you interested in other things, that connects you to other people that give you those opportunities.You know that starts with being interested.

I would like to discover something. Not really like a cell or a planet, I want to have an original idea. I want to work on it and develop it and do something that helps people. I keep thinking that, I always refer to it as my original idea. It will somehow come to me, maybe it’s a business, I don’t know what it might be, I’m waiting for my original idea to come.

That’s why I wasn’t going to go to grad school. I was going to go to grad school for psychology, then I went to Paris, November of my senior year. When I was in Paris, my best friend and I decided after we graduate, we are going to travel and do a Europe backpack trip.

I knew it was totally out of my comfort zone because I’m not like a free spirit in that way, but I also love to travel so it’s this weird mix.

I’m always walking this line between who I want to be and who I feel comfortable being.

So we mapped out where we were going to start, we were going to start in Spain work our way through, work our way east come up north. But then September 11th happened and that all got blown out and we both went back to school.

I’m healthy. I make for the most part, good food decisions, so I’m real. And that’s actually what people have said to me before; I’m not going to lie to you, I’m not fake not trying to come across as anybody except who I am.

We don’t eat processed food. I’m from the farm, not the factory. If I can make it at home, then I can eat it. So we can eat all sorts of different junk food, so it’s gotta be homemade.

I try to limit sugar, good fat good calories. I’m not gonna eat it from the box. If I want cook-

Phillips posing in front of her wall of inspiratinal quotations (M. Barchard).

ies, I’m gonna make them at home then I will eat fifty of them.

Have you ever seen the movie “Final Destination,” where they die in the most random sort of extreme ways? That’s how I describe my catastrophic thinking. So what happens if I drop this book, and then I trip. Then somebody falls and then they stab me with a pencil and then you die but the ambulance can’t get there because it’s icy.You know what I mean thats the kind of stuff that goes through my brain in a split second.

“I would like to discover something. Not really like a cell or a planet, I want to have an original idea and I want to work on it and develop it and do something that helps people.”

-Shannon Phillips

february 27 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

Arden Bubula

21

Optimist “Find what makes you happy.” interviewed by samantha reyes // staff writer I’m an animal person. I just really hate birds. You can put me in a room with a crocodile, but 3 pigeons and *shakes head*. I hate birds. I think they’re creepy, they fly.

I fed a racoon once. It was a mama. You could tell because once you gave her food, she would go right back to her babies.

I caught a pretty salamander once, but then I found out it was poisonous, so I had to let it go.

I would go to the future, or when Andrew Jackson was alive. I love me some Andrew Jackson. I feel like he would be hilarious, but really racist.

“I think ghosts exist. I just think they’re not as bad as everybody says. I don’t think a ghost is out to haunt you,” -Arden Bubula My superpower would be the ability to fill things. Automatically. I could fill my bank account with money, If I didn’t like someone I could fill their bladder with pee.

If you made me mad, you’re going to have to pee now. Sucks for you.

Fish Food by Ben & Jerry’s, it is like marshmallow and caramel swirls and then chocolate fish in chocolate ice cream, the best Ben & Jerry’s I’ve ever had.

Bubula reading a book in the school library (M. Barchard).

mate objects.

I’ve eaten a worm. I wrote a winning book on it in like first grade. I used to save worms.

I almost punched a kid in the face for stepping on a worm. I’m really sympathetic to worms.

I’ve never heard of a worm killing anyone.

Well, a garden worm, not a tapeworm, tapeworms are really creepy.

“My superpower would be the ability to fill things. Automatically.

I could fill my bank account with money. If I didn’t like someone I could fill their bladder with pee,”

I hate fish, so if I can eat their food and starve them, I’m happy. I wouldn’t really eat fish food, it tastes really gross.

-Arden Bubula

Mistakes. That’s how I know that. I’ve made mistakes.

Maybe the fact that people care too much about what somebody’s religion is or if they’re gay or not.

When I was younger, I ate everything.

Literally everything, including insects and inani-

I think that’s what I would change, just how much people care and the power that people

give to people that are the straight-laced, old, crinkly white dudes.

I think ghosts exist, I just think they’re not as bad as everybody says. I don’t think a ghost is out to haunt you.

If you think back to the 1800s, people didn’t have running water, ghosts are going to be like, “Oh, what’s this? Wow. Why aren’t people dying of tuberculosis everywhere? Wow. What is that?”

Find what makes you happy, and do it for as long as you can. Just surround yourself with things that make you happy.

You really have to think though, because maybe a boyfriend or girlfriend is a pain and it’s a commitment, but at the end of the day if it makes you really happy, stay with them.

Surround yourself with people that make you happy and things that make you happy.

Like a job that makes you happy, or a house that you’re satisfied with.

Even if things get stressful, you’ll always have at least one thing around you that you can go to that’ll make you happy.

22

MEANING OF LIFE

february 27 2015

Mackenzie Mullis Family Oriented

“My relationship with my grandparents is so strong because I am with them all the time.” interviewed by jasmin dhillon // staff writer The main thing I love about horseback riding is seeing how much you improve. There’s such a difference because it’s yourself and you know yourself and your horse. After 13 years of riding, I can see the difference from the beginning to now. I love being able to see my hard work pay off.

My horse’s name is Bentley. He’s my pet more than anything. I won Nationals with Bentley. That was an awesome experience with him.

My show horse two years ago died in a barn fire. It was devastating but I have met so many new people and I have had so many experiences that I would not have had. Basically, everything happens for a reason.

My old horse was a country horse so he did not have as much motion. It was a different style of riding. Horses are like people, and they have their own personalities. It has been a totally new experience with Bentley for me.

They are so different and that has taught me a lot and made me a better rider to have Bentley come into my life. It’s more teamwork than an individual horse and rider. When he learns something new, I have to teach it to him. We are learning together instead of separately.

I have changed in so many ways because of horseback riding. It’s mostly because of the people I have met and the relationships I’ve had. My relationship with my grandparents is so strong because I am with them all the time, and they have been so supportive. I get to do all of this with them. They serve as a parental role to me, and they have changed my life a lot.

My trainer, Richard, is a close friend to me and he influences me all the time. He has taught me everything. He has been a huge part of my riding career. We always say that the day he stops yelling at me is the day he gives up on me because he is always going to have something that he wants improvement on. He always wants me to be better and I love that.

Mullis competing in a recent competition (Courtesy of M. Mullis).

Nationals was the competition that I will remember forever. The moment that I found out I was number one at Nationals was unbelievable. The whole moment was shocking and exciting. My grandma was crying. It was really sweet and emotional. That would be my favorite moment.

I think I am going to ride forever. I can’t see myself stopping but I don’t think I will compete after high school because it’s a huge time commitment. I think I will always ride though.

I am more confident when I ride more than

anything else I do. It’s my comfort zone and stress reliever. This is my passion.

You need to be committed and work your hardest at everything. If you want to do well, you have to put everything into it. No matter how hard it has gotten, I have always worked my hardest and I keep doing it because it is what makes me happy.

February 27, 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

Cassidy Kurkewitz

23

Dreamer “Make your life what you now want it to be.” interviewed by ashley o’brien // online editor I think we come back as different people and live a different life all over again.

The fact that life can end at any single moment, and you just have to deal with it is what makes life so great.

Someone who lets you do really stupid things even though they’re really stupid, and they still support your stupidity as a best friend..

It would be terrifying to wake up to a 10foot teddy bear. It’s cute right now, but at like two in the morning when I’m half asleep and its staring at me its not so cute any more.

He [my dog] peed on my sister’s clothes and as a result he got shaved, and now he looks funny. Spitball’s such a little rat and hes just there with his puppy self.

I don’t know how to phrase it. I would be sad 24/7. There would be nobody to talk to, nobody to hang out with. If he wasn’t with me I would still be talking to guys who hurt me.

You’re only going to be labeled as a horrible person if you start believing what people are saying about you is true.You need to just keep living as if you’re not being labeled as a horrible person.

I think it would be great to live a day as me, and to see what everyone thought of me while I wasn’t there, but really I was there being invisible.

When you can tell people are judging you, you just know you don’t want to be there.

When I was 7, I went in my basement with my dad, and he dropped a penny on the top of my head and screamed spider, so when I went to take off the “spider” there was actually a legitimate spider.

She’s someone who has been through everything, she has tried giving up but came

Kurkewitz posing with her sister Jessica (Courtesy of C. Kurkewitz).

back ten times stronger and thats what makes my sister my hero.

If one person loves you so much that you just don’t care about everyone else who hates you, then everything is okay.

He was my heart breaker, someone who acts like they are there for you and love you and care about you but then suddenly they flip a switch and hate you seconds later.

This girl and I liked the same person, and we were introduced to each other by the fact that we got cheated on by the same person and since that was our upbringing it kind of already put us in a bad position to begin with. I think getting away from everything and everyone that we’ve had issues with would fix a lot of problems.

I started right after my parents got divorced, going horseback riding was like a different family compared to the issues at home.

I dont like love, it’s happening and it’s there and at any given second, it can be gone.

I’m really hoping that love doesn’t just disappear and be gone like every other time I thought I loved somebody.

Make your life what you now want it to be. Have fun, be wild, and make it incredible and don’t be stupid.

24

MEANING OF LIFE

Keili Herron

february 27 2015

Sock collector “I’m the coolest person I know.”

interviewd by tyler watkins // staff writer

If I made a sandwich, I’d put on turkey, cheese, and tomatoes, but I don’t like tomatoes. I just put tomatoes on there because I feel like everyone puts tomatoes on their and sandwiches and so people will judge me if I don’t put tomatoes on them. So I put tomatoes on them, but when I go to eat them I secretly take the tomatoes off.

If it was at all possible to have dinner with myself I would, because I’m the coolest person I know.

My fear is not being able to do what I want, like being trapped in Huntley forever.

I was told once that boys are dumb, and they only get dumber, and if you can learn to deal with them, you’ll be successful.

I hate when people who are turning left go into the left/right turn lane at the intersection of Square Barn and Algonquin when the left turn lane is empty. I’m just trying to go home. The left turn lane is empty. I can’t go home because you want to sit there and go left.

I never participated in Halloween when I was a kid because my dad said it was demonic and he thought that I would be possessed. That’s also the reason why I’m not allowed to read Harry Potter.

Please don’t make out in the hallway, it’s really annoying. Go to class, I’ve learned that that’s a good thing to do.

We do random room checks. My dad will be like “I’m coming in your room,” and one time he grounded me for like a month because I had too many pairs of jeans, and another time he wasn’t going to let me go on a trip because my ceiling was dirty.

I really have a thing for squirrels. I think they’re amusing, just like how they do things and their tails are cute.

Keili Herron drinking her favoritve beverage, apple juice (courtesy of Keili Herron).

I love the color black because it looks good with everything and it’s

so dark so it brings out my paleness. I live for the contrast.

SHEILA SANTORO salon services

With over 20 years experience, Sheila’s Salon is dedicated to providing quality salon services at affordable prices for the entire family. Providing you with the services to fit your needs.

Women’s Cut and Style - $39 Men’s Cut - $24 Color - $55 (each additional color - $15) Up Do’s starting at $50 ...and much more!

FOR APPOINTMENT CALL 224-633-6776

In Style Salon Suites Esplanade Plaza South of Algonquin Commons 2316 Esplanade Dr. Suite 119 Algonquin, IL Second Location 115 W. Oak Knoll - Rt. 72 Hampshire, IL

I kind of collect socks and I have this one pair that I haven’t ever worn because they’re so beautiful that I don’t want to ruin them, so they’re just like chilling in my room. I have a desk, and I keep them on the desk. There’s nothing else on the desk, it’s just the socks and books.

I love The 1975 because they’re fantastic. Number one, Matty Healy.

Number two, all of their songs are super deep and they make you feel really good. I like how when you listen to their songs you’re like ‘oh that’s really cool’ but when you listen to it again and again and again, you notice more things about it and you realize what it’s actually about.

I hate the movie “That Awkward Moment” because it’s really funny until halfway through the movie and then it becomes really depressing. Also, grown men don’t wear cardigans that much.

february 27 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

James Kline

25

Family man “You only have so much time in the day.”

interviewed by danielle katz // staff writer I would say my most prized possession is my family. I see them pretty much once a year because I have family all over the United States.

The ideal job would be that you enjoy what you do, you enjoy the people you working with, and you enjoy going to work every day.

We had a huge family reunion in Indiana. I had family from all over get together. We just ran around and played a lot.

My parents. They really helped my brother and me when we were growing up. They invested a lot of time in us. They looked out for us.

-James Kline

I’ve been impatient and I rush through things. I wish I wouldn’t have been impatient and given things more time. I wish I’d seen things through. I would tell myself don’t give up if I could.

Roman times sounds like a fun time to go to. There’s a lot of athletic events and it seems a lot different. I feel like it would be a culture shock.

My biggest fear I guess would be dying too young. My youngest brother had at twin who died very young. My best friend died at the age of 22 in some kind of freak accident after graduation.

“My biggest fear I guess would be dying young, ”

Just like anything, things could be adjusted or made better. Teachers are trying to figure out ways to improve themselves. All the pieces are in place. But nothing is 100 percent perfect.

I’ve been pretty good at accomplishing my goals. I’ve been pretty successful in the past.

I saw one of my friends die.

He was really tall and we were on a double decker bus. He hit his head on an underpass.

You only have so much time in the day.

I would choose time travel. It’d be interesting to see how things

Holly’s Salon 50% OFF

Monday - Friday 9 am - 2 pm

*For new clients on first visit

2316 Esplanadde Drive Suite 111 Algonquin, IL 60102 (inside InStyle Salon)

Services All-over color Re-touches Highlights Partial & full folil

W

Deep condition treatment Waxing And more, just ask!

hether it’s color or a cut. I guarantee you’ll leave my salon suite with a fresh look you’ll love!

Holly Adler

Owner and master stylist

847-815-8162 hollyshairsalon.com

Courtesy of James Kline.

were or how they are in the future.

My brother and I are four years apart. We’re really close. I remember being out until like 10 o’clock at night just playing sports. My dad worked a lot. My parents were on me and my brother a lot in school and jobs.

I have a small family, so we’re really close. My cousins were like brothers and sisters to me. We looked out for each other.

My advice to freshmen: Take advantage of opportunities presented to you. Make the best out of your experience. My advice to graduating class: Do your best at

everything. Be true to yourself.

I would want to see less conflict in the world, people getting along better.You see people being killed for reasons. It’s too bad there isn’t less of that.

If you fail you can at least learn and grow from it. If you never attempt, you’re stuck wondering what could have been.

Live life to the fullest. Appreciate everything. Never take anything for granted. Take chances.

Always set high goals for yourself.

People have more similarities than differences. Get along.

26

MEANING OF LIFE

Shaun Conway

february 27 2015

Golfer “I would love to have Hulk like strength.”

interviewed by eric weideman // staff writer

I wish I was more social in high school. I feel like I didn’t have as many experiences.

A teacher told me that I would be a good one as well. I got into the Golden Apple Scholarship Program.

I have an 8-week-old daughter named Kyleigh.

I collect concert tickets. I’ve been going to concerts for as long as I can remember, and started keeping the ticket stubs.

I’ve been to over 300 concerts.

If you have 10 hours to cut down a tree, spend the first eight sharpening the ax.

I was an intern for Senator Obama before he became president, and I met him a few times.

My family brings the most joy to my life.

I like to work on my house. I really enjoy doing projects.

I like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. They’re the perfect balance between chocolate and peanut butter.

AP US History was my favorite class in high school.

I think I would chose to live in the late 1700s because I think I would make a solid alternative to George Washington.

Dig your well before you’re thirsty.

I would love to have Hulk-like strength.

The best vacation was Ireland, England, and the Netherlands.

If I had 24 hours to live I would go golfing, hang out with my wife and daughter, and have a chef-cooked meal.

Do what makes you happy, control what you can and don’t worry about what you can’t.

An ideal day is a cup of coffee, going golfing, a Blackhawks game, maybe I’d mow the lawn.

Shaun Conway holding a picture of him and his wife (K. Sachchidanand).

My greatest fear is being buried alive.

Ask someone to drive you to the airport.

If they say yes, then they’re your friend. If they say no, they’re not.

My prized possession is a Steve Larmer autographed puck. I got it at a Blackhawks game when I was a kid.

CONTACT US

Our Professionals can help with:

4590 Princeton Lane Suite 100 Lake in the Hills, IL 60156 (847) 669-5454 lake_in_the_hills.huntingtonhelps.com

• • • • •

SAT/ACT test prep Subject tutoring Exam prep Study skills Academic skills

Hours: M-Th: 9:00am-8:00pm Sat: 9:00am- 1:00pm | Sun: 12:00pm-4:00pm

The craziest thing I’ve done is skydiving, or moving to Washington D.C. I looked up to my grandpa. He had five kids to take care of, and built his house by hand.

If I had a million dollars, I would either set up a college fund for my daughter, or take my buddies to Scotland for golfing.

I started skating when I was 2 years old, and played hockey all throughout high school.

february 27 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

Karen Bula

27

Hugger “My greatest achievement was learning to love myself.”

interviewed by trisha fritz // staff writer

I think you should be allowed to be yourself, accept other people, and realize that there might be something you can gain from being their friend, knowing and understanding them.

I’ll say things that other people won’t say, it is things that they are thinking, but it makes them uncomfortable.

It can be hard to take the truth from people, but you have to be willing to be upfront about things and be blunt.You just have to do it the right way.

I wish people were more open minded and accepting of others. I just hate how people are so intolerant of others and just assume that their opinion is right.

My greatest achievement was learning to love myself.

I am a hugger, but my friends really aren’t. I am just an affectionate person, but I don’t get creepy about it.

If you are what you eat, I would be chicken and dumplings, but not any old chicken and dumplings. It would be the ones that my mom made.

I am very orderly. If there are rules, they are there for a reason. Follow the stinking rules dangit.

One of the biggest things that I learned from my mistakes that if I have an instinct about something, then I should probably listen to my gut.

My big pet peeve is when someone is so focused on themselves that they are inconsiderate to other people.

Karen Bula holding a picture of her and her family (K. Sachchidanand).

ment and I did not look carefully enough at what marriage was.

My first deal breaker is if a guy says “hey, you are really attractive” because every guy who does that turns out to be a jerk.

Well I think marriage is commitment to another person, working hard to communicate and make each other happy.

If you have a one sided [relationship] it is never going to work out well because one person is going to become angry and bitter.

Really, you are not the only person on the planet.You don’t have to honk at me to move at the Costco gas station, the other hoses can reach your car.

Babies are drawn to me. I am the baby whisperer. Any kind of kid or animal is drawn to me.

I let the idea of what I wanted, and the idea of what I thought it would be cloud, my judg-

I am a dog person. I am going to run a dachshund farm so they can run around in fields and stuff.

You’re going to hear a lot of ideas in your life, take in all of them. Keep the ones you like and get rid of the ones you don’t.

Teaching was not my first choice. I wanted to work in broadcasting.

Everyone is given a gift in their lives and I firmly believe that everybody has some type of skill. If you can find a career that uses that set of skills and brings you personal fulfillment then you have a responsibility to society.

Hey if you’re invisible and you can stop time, then what a better way to rob a bank.

Call me Super Bula.

I have a lot of ideas that I do not follow through on. I think about all the possibilities in life because I like throwing ideas out there.

28

MEANING OF LIFE

Jake Doyle

february 27 2015

Musician “You can never get better at something if you never do it.” interviewd by lukas kubelka // staff writer To hang out with my favorite band Dream Theatre. They are really smart when it comes to music. They are what I want to be.

I would fly anywhere I want. Italy or somewhere really nice. My uncle was in Italy for four years so I heard about how nice it was.

My dad and his brothers all played [bass and drums], his dad played. On my dad’s side they all played instruments.

It’s more of whatever happens, happens. I think I determine what I do. If there is a God, either way, I’m more about living my life now than worry about what comes after.

Music in general sticks out, it has been with me my entire life. I kinda got into it myself. I was really young so I didn’t know my family had a history with music then. First it was drums, but that didn’t work out.

I listen to a lot of music. Basically all different kinds of music, except pop and country.

Country all sounds the same to me, same with pop. Music depends on the person.

If it comes to stress, don’t even worry because you’re probably not going to talk to the people you talked to in high school anyway.You don’t really have to worry about them for your real life. I usually think that it’s only one thing in your life, even if you mess up.Years down the line you probably won’t remember it.

I usually don’t worry too much about anything. If it’s something I wanna do, I’m gonna do it. I don’t really worry about other people liking me for it. I hate to regret things.

It’s worse to never attempt. If you attempt it you might not fail. If you fail you can learn something and always try again.You can never get better at something if you never do it.

Jake Doyle posing with his favorite bass guitar (K. Sachchidanand).

My favorite bass, I keep it at home. It’s a five string Ibanez. If anyone asks if it’s named, I just say the serial code. I know a lot of people who name their instruments. I never thought about it. The serial code is just right there on the back of the bass, so I usually just go with that.

I’ve been through a lot of hobbies and I’ve dropped a lot of them. I used to try and go into art, but I dropped that. Thats one of the bigger ones that I wish I was into now. But there’s not that many big regrets that I have.

Overall, I’m glad that music is stuck with me.

Too much killing, wars, all the murders out there, seems like it’s too much. Killing is the worst thing that one person can do to another person. And yet it happens so much every day. We are fighting wars, and I question what for? They can believe what they wanna believe, but why do they have to stop us from believing what we want to believe? If everyone just accepted each other, it would all stop.

february 27 2015

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT FREE CHECKING …

Chad Radtke, Agent State Farm Agent 11810 Main Street Unit 1 Huntley, IL 60142 Bus: 224-569-4500

No kidding.

When I say free, I mean absolutely — no minimum balance, no monthly service fees, no surprises, no hassles, no gimmicks — free. That’s State Farm Bank Free Checking. Bank with a good neighbor . CALL ME TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION. ®

®

1101421.1

State Farm Bank, F.S.B. Bloomington, IL

Good food Great times

4053 Algonquin Road Algonquin, IL 60101 (847) 515 7181

29

30

MEANING OF LIFE

february 27 2015

Carlos Aldape Jr. Humanitarian

“Stay open minded to different people and different things.” interviewed by devin martin // a&e editor I love dogs, but I have the personality of a cat because at big events or a party I like to be isolated. If there is a big gathering I just stay to myself rather than be a part of the group.

[I love] music and dance because I am on a dance team. I always wanted to create music, and my dance team is also national and worldwide. With nationals, I have been to the US Finals at Disney World.

[Dance] means the bond I have with my teammates. After I joined dance, I have met a bunch of new people. The relationships that I have built with dance are better than everything else.

I would want to see Chicago in the 1960s.

This is my city, and I was born and raised here.

I love the lifestyle of the ‘60s. The music and the artists are great. [It] just seems like a great time to be in and the music era had smooth jazz and hard rock.

Everyone deserves equal rights, and every one deserves to have their own ground to be

Carlos poses in the auditorium (A. Parzygnat).

able to call their own that they are proud of.

This pertains to my specific situation for me being openly gay, and it is something that I want to be able to get to in the future. I want [a time] where nobody has to state their sexual orientation, and everybody can be just

fine with what happens in a relationship.

My godmother, and she is also my aunt. She is my role model because she either had no money, or she had too many kids to worry about. Now she is very poor but she is very sustained with the money that she has. She also still has patience and happiness to deal with all the families’ grandchildren.

My greatest ambition is to be a parent, and to see [my godmother], and all the troubles that she has been through, she is really inspiring.

Stay open minded to different people, and different things. I feel like a lot of people in the school are doing that because I see a lot of diverse friend groups. I’d never think I’d be involved in band, but they are the best people in the school.

It is very interesting to see from middle school to high school and people think it’s going to be cliquey, but it’s not.

february 27 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

Maggie Fulling

31

Adventurer “I try to get people to do some things that they normally wouldn’t.” interviewed by claire filpi // sports editor One thing on my bucket list is to go down to New York where the ball drops on New Year’s Eve and just stand with all the thousands or however many people.

I know it would be nuts, but it would be so much fun.

I have always known that I wanted to be a teacher. I was that kid who has the podium, grade books, the fake names and lesson plans. I used to play in my basement when I was 7 or 8.

I want to provide that safe environment where not only the kids are in math, because that is my primary concern, but where they have a place where they feel safe in the building.

In my spare time I like to hang out with my friend and eat good food. I don’t really like to go to the movies.

I try to get people to do some things that they normally wouldn’t like lazer tagging or paintballing. Fun things that you wouldn’t think to do and people roll their eyes at, but they end up being really fun.

Advice to freshmen: Put 100 percent towards anything you do from the very beginning of high school to the end. A lot

Maggie Fulling teaching in class (C. Filpi).

of students regret not trying harder or pushing themselves because they were nervous or wanted to fit in.

High school is going to be what you make it, so try new things, enjoy your fellow Raiders, and be proud of what you do here.

Advice to the graduating class: You have your whole life ahead of you and now is the time to be selfish.

Don’t worry about what anybody else is doing but you, because you have to live with you for the rest of your life Pursue what you are passionate about and always give everything your best shot.

A good friend is someone who is honest, loyal, and shares the same sense of humor. When I say honest, I mean the type of honest that can be uncomfortable at times but the stuff that you need to hear.

The greatest achievement I can think of off the top of my head was during junior year of college. I minored in Psychology and was part of a group that was giving a speech. In that class of 25, everyone was a psych major except me; I was the only math ed. major. My part in the speech was supposed to be five minutes long, but I got so into it and loved the material so I ended up taking for 15 minutes.

When the speech concluded, there was a Q & A part to the speech and the whole class talked about how it made total sense that I was going to be a teacher. They talked about how they actually wanted to keep listening to me and the way I gave my speech was different than they’d ever had a classmate present. I felt really proud of myself at that moment and still do.

32

MEANING OF LIFE

Emily Vandy

february 27 2015

Music enthusiast “[I love] music because you don’t need a language for music.” interviewed by taylor o’donnell // staff writer Dog person. Cats are very aloof, and dogs are like ‘come play fetch with me.’

[I love] music because you don’t need a language for music.

I’ve been raised my whole life to believe, but then all these bad things happen and I wonder where is God. [I would live] now, because we have Internet and antibiotics and I like to not die from disease.

Emily Vandy posing with her clarinet (R. O’Sullivan).

I would have telekinesis. With other superpowers you are so limited.

Be cool. You’re not a senior, so don’t be too cool.

It is worse to fail than to never try. If you fail, you have really bad memories and it will be a bad ending. If you never try, then it is like nothing happened.

I believe that our existence doesn’t end completely. It seems unfair to me that we have to wait until we die for the biggest mystery to be solved. It would come in handy when I’m alive.

I would go to the city and I would absorb some fine culture. The Big Apple. I like big cities and New York is a really swell place.

A Future To Smile About

My mom’s side is all conservative white Christians. On my padre’s side is this crazy Italian family. They make a lot of food and they don’t judge me hardcore. I’m such a white suburban person.

Reflektor by Arcade Fire. It’s got funky beats and the lyrics speak to my soul. [I want to] See Arcade Fire in person and travel to Italy, Greece, and the Great Britain.

Indie Alternative. I’m at risk at sounding arrogant about my music here, but it is the best type.

Harry Potter, because it is part of my childhood and I’ve always dreamed of going to Hogwarts.

What is so special about a numerical representation? Nothing. Why do I have to have to love them?

[My pet peeve is] when people chew loudly and you can hear them across the room. Close your gosh darn mouth.

Gurrl!! One time I dressed up as a bag of jelly beans.

I’m rather fond of Misha Collins.

TRAPANI ORTHODONTICS Andrew P. Trapani, DDS, MS Diplomate American Board of Orthodontics

Dwight Frey, DDS, PC 1497 Merchant Drive Algonquin , IL, 60102 (847) 658 - 4020

(888) 302-3541

McGrathHondaElgin.com

2020 North Randall Road Elgin, IL 60123

2014 Honda Civic Sedan LX lease for 36 months with $0 due at signing. 12K miles per year. No security deposit with approved credit. Excludes taxes, titles and dealer fees. Additional charges may apply at lease end. See dealer for complete details.

february 27 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

Lauren Felde

33

Mother

“My family has a different outlook on life. Our whole philosophy changed.” interviewed by tess miller // staff writer St. Baldrick’s is a great way for people to look outside their world. It brings fun and joy to a really serious cause. It reaches out to a lot of different people of all ages.

My hero is Payton because anyone that can endure what she went through and can still smile everyday [is a hero].

I would live exactly where I am because of everything we have been through. Having the support of your family and friends - can’t get that anywhere else.

It was probably when Payton got sick; [you realize] that you can’t fix everything in one day.

You don’t know what tomorrow will bring.

I want to go skydiving, or go overseas and backpack. Before kids, we backpacked all the time so being able to go do something adventurous again.

I have run 10 half-marathons and one full one. I run because it is my time.

Being surrounded by all of the cancer families. It’s changed everything.

Laura Feldy posing with her family by their Christmas tree (Courtesy of L. Felde).

I love teaching and I love teaching students with severe special needs. I’ve always known this is what I have wanted to do.

A piece of advice I would offer my younger self would to be enjoy life. Don’t worry about things that are out of your control.You just have to go day by day.

My husband is a chiropractor so he offers services to families that are going through what we went through free of charge. That is our way of giving back.

My favorite thing about being a mom is just watching your kids grow up, and seeing them develop and become people.

Our greatest support system is our family and close friends, especially with everything we have been through.

We were really excited to send Payton off to preschool because she was really ready, and two weeks after preschool she got diagnosed and she missed a whole year. Her going back this year was more emotional, It was a big step.

My favorite portrait is of, and we have it blown up over our fireplace, at Payton’s big fundraiser last December, and all of us are sitting on Santa’s lap. Payton was in the midst of chemo. No hair, very sick; but she’s smiling and Jordan’s smiling. It is our favorite picture.

I have learned a lot from my students. When Payton got sick I think it helped me connect to my students’ parents because they struggle every day with tons of different things. It gave me a glimpse of what they deal with every day for the rest of their lives.

Our last trip to Disney was very special because we didn’t know if we would have another vacation with Payton. It was very special for Payton.

If I could change one thing about the world, it would be not letting people get sick. It is just horrible to watch people suffer.

My family has a different outlook on life.

Our whole philosophy changed. The little things don’t matter; they will be there tomorrow, next week. We have become such a giving family.

34

MEANING OF LIFE

Anna Kormanak

february 27 2015

Fierce “At one point in my life, I really want to go to Ireland.” interviewed by haylie larson // staff writer Cat person. I have had cats since I was in kindergarten and I really like cats.

I love listening to music and I’m not into dance.

I believe in God. No, I don’t collect random things, that’s just weird.

[I love] Kit Kats because they’re yummy.

I don’t have a favorite cartoon character.

I would want to see the future, we haven’t been there before.

Stop killing each other.

I’m a very boring sandwich eater so it would just be cheese, turkey, and lettuce.

I’d say never attempt it in the first place because you don’t know if you’re going to fail or not.You might succeed.

I have lots of cousins and my grandparents are crazy, but I like being with them.

Definitely don’t procrastinate on homework because you get a lot of it, more than eighth grade.

[My favorite vacation is] Mexico for my cousin’s wedding.

I want to do something with animals.

[My favorite color is] blue and I don’t even know why. Blue or purple I guess.

I always liked Easter and I know it’s a little weird, but I like St. Patrick’s Day. I really did not like ‘The Giver’ because it didn’t follow the book.

I totally believe in the ghost stuff so I’m afraid of ghosts, and heights.

Anna Kormanak posing for a picture (Courtesy of A. Kormanak).

So last year in history, I got really dizzy for some reason. When I walked out of the room, I was so dizzy I couldn’t see so I ran right into this kid doing the MAP testing. I’m pretty sure everyone saw me.

It really bothers me when people chew gum obnoxiously. Like, no.

I’m really shy so that kinda gets in the way a lot, but when you get to know me, man, I’m not shy any more.

At one point in my life, I really want to go to Ireland.

I was with my whole family a lot when growing up and I guess that’s special because not a lot of people of get the chance to meet their whole family.

I grew up in the same place, right here in Huntley.

I would buy everything I ever wanted.

I would rather be cold because then I could just wear a lot of coats and be warm.

I would dress up as a cat or witch [for Halloween]. One year I dressed as cookie monster.

When I was younger, my favorite cartoon was ‘Foster’s Home For Imaginary Friends.’

If I had the ability to go back in time to create a now modern tool, I would create Google because I would make so much money. Google makes you feel so stupid, but then it gives you answers. If it’s not on the first page, it doesn’t exist.

When I was younger, I wanted to be a vet.

I don’t want to be that anymore. I’d probably kidnap their animals.

Snapple. Either Snapple or Arnold Palmer.

february 27 2015

MEANING OF LIFE

Ava Novak

35

Fierce “I promised myself to be open and friendly.” interviewed by austin zeis // staff writer My view of God is bright. I was raised Catholic but switched to Agnostic because all religions have the same values.

Records have something more compelling than CDs. It intrigues me to have a hard, visual copy of music, something that has changed history and the earliest version of music.

My favorite candy bar is Baby Ruth because it is chocolatey and has a weird texture.

“Catscratch” was compelling to watch because I have always enjoyed the presence of cats and their pure beauty. The way the producer perceived cats was goofy and something special to me.

All girls know that everything you try on has a different feel, so I prefer to shop in malls Ava Novak posing with a camera (C. Filpi). so I can try everything on and see how I look in that outfit.

The one thing that brings joy to my life would have to be goofy people and what they Everything my mom tells me about the do. parties in the 1980s and 1990s makes me want to go back and experience it, feel it, live it.

Any time I need to let loose, I dance.

The fact that I can express my love of music If I could change something about the modthrough dance is something I cannot get ern world I would change everyone into being enough of. environmentally friendly.

If I could eat lunch with any five people it would be Rihanna, Beyonce, Quentin Tarantino, Wes Anderson, and Anna Kendrick.

If I could go back in time and create a modern world tool I would make YouTube because you learn so much from it and I have my own YouTube account.

“Jamaica is the best place to be simply because of the great food, the relaxed environment, and the people. The variety of this country just gets me going. So many different people are always there whether they are native or tourists.”

My sandwich would be a bacon cheeseburger with a grilled cheese on top and on the bottom.

-Ava Novak

I am obsessed with screenplays. When an idea comes to mind and I fall in love with it, there is nothing better than to write it down and see it fall in place with my own eyes.

What is the best way to experience the best things in life? Parties. They have the best food, good old dancing, hopefully some swimming, and the people I love.

American education is broken because people focus too much on tests and not enough on scholarships.

My extended family is loud and fun and we always play cards when we see each other.

When I am relaxing I pick out a movie and watch it.

The one song on my phone that I will never skip is “Sleepless” by Flume. I love the beat.

Jamaica is the best place to be simply because of the great food, the relaxed environment, and the people. The variety of this country just gets me going. So many different people are always there whether they are native or tourists.

My biggest change was when I promised myself to be open and friendly because you never know what you will encounter.

Shannon Phillips

Jake Doyle

Mackenzie Mullis

Keili Heron

James Kline

Jon Franzen

Katie Haberkorn

Arden Bubula

Shaun Conway

Matthew Blain

Claudine Garcia Jillian Jenkins

Karen Bula Ed Ferrante

Matt Liberatore

Brett Pielstrom

Anna Korminack

Makombo Tizora

Emily Vandy

Tiffany Smalec

Ava Novak

Annika Bushman

Lauren Felde

Abigail Siefken

Maggie Fulling