Emma's Portfolio Fall 2017

Emma Russello’s Fall 2017 Portfolio

Self-Analytical Evaluation

In my first semester being an editor, I learned many new things that I would have never thought I would learn otherwise. The skill that I struggled with the most was the actual production of my pages. How to use InDesign and how to create an actual page in a professional way were some of the skills I acquired first semester. I had to have a lot of help from the other editors and Adamson, especially on production day, but I always got my pages done to the best of my ability.

Being an editor also meant learning how to direct the staff members and make sure they got their articles and pictures in on time. This required the skills of leadership and teamwork, which I quickly picked up. I think I worked well with the rest of the students, but sometimes I was not as hard or as directive as I needed to be so that they would get their assignments in on time, and done well. A pro to being a leader is that I got to decide what I wanted on my page and how I wanted it, but the con is that sometimes you have to be hard on others, and maybe even cut their articles if they were not good enough. Next semester, I want to be more clear on how I want the articles and pictures done, and to just be a stronger leader so that the paper will be better. These skills of leadership and teamwork will follow pretty much everyone throughout life, and I know they will come in use to me at work and in social situations in the future.

Deadlines are the death of everyone, because everyone procrastinates...even me. Being an editor, the deadlines for my articles I had to write were a little more lenient, because everyone knew it would be done, but that did not stop me from procrastinating. However, the deadlines to get my page done was a little more stressful, because honestly I did not know what I was doing. I always got the things I needed to do done in the end, but next semester I should try and get a head start on things earlier. Journalism ethics were something I learned last year being a staff writer, and they carried me through being an editor. Being objective is sometimes the hardest part, but is what makes a good article that everyone can read and not get mad about. Today, more news networks need to be more objective and have better journalism ethics, like the ones I have learned in this class.

Taking pride in one’s work and having dedication is really what makes a good newspaper/magazine. I think I was an asset to the staff this semester because I always got my work done on time, and always tried my best. It’s hard for me to just not do my work, or to do it poorly, so I think that skill really helped me this semester. The biggest problems I faced this semester was that I did not know how to use InDesign or how to design a page, and that some of the staff writers did not turn anything in, or did not do what they had to do well. Throughout experience and help from some other people in the class I was able to learn more about InDesign and handle the problems that I had. My greatest weakness is probably just lack of experience when creating my own page, so I will just have to try twice as hard and do what I can to learn as much as I can. I will continue to get help from other editors so that the design will not be a weakness anymore.

My most significant spread and the one I am most proud of this semester is the December Travel page. I consider this page to be my most significant partly because it is from the most current issue, so my InDesign and production skills were the best, due to experience. I also am most proud of this page because I did most of it myself, and did not have to have much help from Adamson.

Before I started making this page, I knew that it was going to be difficult. I had only assigned two big stories, and one poll to the page, knowing that a picture will be the central point, so I did not have much room for a lot of stories. However, one of the stories never got done because of problems with one of the staff writers.

The other writer for my page did not get an adult interview for her story, which I only realized at production day. So, I did not have much to work with, so I pulled a sidebar that was assigned for a different issue that I did not use, and re-vamped it to make it more timely. Once I made my page, I decided that I had to try to get that adult interview myself, first thing Monday morning. I asked all my teachers, and none of them applied to the story. So when I came into newspaper, I had to be assertive and ask the girl who wrote the story to go and try to find the interview, and she did.

So, from my first draft on production day to the final published piece, the page had changed a lot because of the obstacles that were thrown my way. I like the big picture, and the way the stories just look on the page, and I also like the little poll infographic that I made. This was my most significant page, because I dealt with all the problems throughout the production, and still made my page look the way I wanted, and made it look good.

Reflection #1

Reflection #1- December Travel Spread travel

lighting up the night

A FAMILY ENJOYING

the inside of a life size, lit up ornament at Illumination AZ

4 BROOK BOWMAN

With the holidays right around the corner, Audrey Fowler discusses different places to take one’s friends and families to look at holiday light displays.

As the holidays come around, the hunt for festive things to do begins.

Christmas lights line the streets and all the community Christmas trees go up. People looking for a holiday event to attend with their friends or families have many different options around the valley.

Illumination AZ

This year, Illumination AZ, the largest drivethru light show visits town. Located on the east side of the I-17, this light show has millions of lights synchronized to Christmas music throughout a mile long drive. After the drive, Illumination offers a stretch of holiday oriented tents along with hot cocoa and food trucks. The cost per car is $29.50

Zoo Lights

The annual Zoo Lights started Nov. 22 and

continues through Jan. 14. The Phoenix Zoo brightens up their exhibits and has a three-story Christmas tree.

“They have a lot of statues of the animals that light up. I went with my family and it was a great time,” said Jessica Mullet, a junior.

The majority of the animals can not be seen from the walkways, but the zoo has millions of lights setup that depict the animals they have.

Lights shaped like monkeys swing around while lions run by, and giraffes nibble on trees.

“Some of the animals you can see are otters and camels. I got to ride a camel named Isaac, so that was pretty awesome,” said Chase Kriby, a junior.

Admission is $19.95.

Glendale Glitters

1.6 million lights illuminate the sixteen blocks of historic Downtown Glendale. Glendale Glitters, named one of the top 5 best holiday light displays, is the largest display of lights for

Scottsdazzle

Dine, shop and experience the events at this years Scottsdazzle. The city of Scottsdale lit up their tree the day after Thanksgiving to kick off their month long holiday event. Scottsdazzle also holds a free “Cowboy Christmas”, which features bands as well as a petting zoo. While out and about, stop by some of Scottsdale’s finest boutiques and stores.

Beginning on Dec. 16, 5th avenue turns into sugar plum avenue featuring a ballet performance of the Nutcracker as well as other interactive performances and events.

Lights of the World

Also named one of the to 5 holiday light displays by USA Today, Lights of the World returns with a shocking 10 million lights making it the largest lantern and light display in North America. This festival takes a more traditional Chinese approach to holiday events.

Lights of the World has 75 displays that bring to lights different cultures. However, millions of lights are not the only thing this festival brings to the valley. Cultural cuisine and carnival rides add to the experience. Displays include, a Chinese dragon, a golden gate, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the London Bridge and much more. Tickets can be purchased on etix.com for $18, and the event is located at the Arizona State Fairgrounds.

TRAVEL ALERT

WHERE DO YOU TRAVEL OVER WINTER BREAK?

Beginning Jan. 22, citizens of nine states will not be able to travel domestically without a valid form of ID, such as a passport or military ID, different from their drivers licence.

W EMMA RUSSELLO intrigue DECEMBER 2017

free in the valley. This glowing light display has several events each weekend that range from special guests to local bands, as well as performances from dance companies across Arizona.

Visitors can enjoy dinner downtown then walk around to view their lights. One can grab some hot cocoa and hop on the carriage ride through the historic district.

“I am going to Glendale Glitters, I love Christmas lights and I love the lights they just put me in the holiday spirit,” said Debbie Dowd, Assistant to Principal of Academics.

These states include Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Washington.

The reasoning behind the requirements for these specific states comes from the Real ID Act of 2005, which was passed as a direct result of 9/11, and forces state identification to reach certain security requirements. The states listed above do not meet those standards, so citizens must have their passports or a military ID as another valid form of identification.

A valid driver's license will be allowed if one is flying in or out of one of the listed states,

because this only applies to citizens of the respected states.

Currently, only 24 states meet the security standards of the Real ID Act, and besides the nine listed above, the other states have been given extension to comply. The process to change a statewide ID is very lengthy, meaning that it may take a long time to get those bills passed due to concerns of privacy and reissuing most people in the state a new and improved drivers license would take a lot of money and resources.

Until the nine states do a statewide change of drivers licences that adhere to the security standards, citizens of these states will need another form of ID to travel anywhere.

Avianna Hoppes Staff Writer

9

Tear Sheets

September, Opinion, page 5

OPINION No Phone Zone, No Fun Zone

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

This year, administration is cracking down on phone use in work done, but honestly, almost every homework assignment the classroom, and it has a lot of students unhappy. requires the use of a phone or access to the internet.

The ‘No Phone Zone’, prohibits the use of technology in the Calling every classroom a ‘No Phone Zone’ does not allow classroom unless the teacher wants their students to use them students to get other work done in class and use technology for an activity. Now, adults view this as a positive idea for a betto their advantage. If a student is misusing their technology ter learning environment, but the students feel as if they are in class it should be up to the teacher's discretion on a punishbeing treated like little kids. ment. Sometimes, using one's phone when there is free time in Juniors and seniors in particular are having a hard time class does not distract anyone, so there should be less of a concoping with this, because it has never been this sequence. as we see it strict in previous years. A good learning environAlso, implementing new school-wide policies and ment with little distractions is a great thing, but if rules in a school of this size is difficult, and teachers a good student is done with their work or workare supposed to be following those rules. Almost every ing on something, they should not be penalized for having their teacher is different on how they are approaching the ‘No Phone phone on their desk. The disruptive or immature actions of a few Zone’, and it can be confusing for students. It should be up to the should not penalize the majority. teacher whether or not a student should use their phone in class, Being able to do other homework after one is finished with and at which points they are allowed to do so. their class work is almost a necessity for a lot of students, espeHaving a school-wide policy like this causes confusion cially ones who participate in sports and/or have a job. Some between the students, teachers and administration because all might argue that one does not need a phone to get homethe classes approach this rule differently.

the editorial

The EDITORIAL represents the consensus view of the members of the Editorial Board.

The Editorial Board members are Kiera Riley, Katelyn Reinhart, Lauren Haggar, Annalee Barnett, Maddie Howard, Mia Gilling, Sara Windom, Emma Russello, Grace Haycraft-McKee, Faith Hasher, Olivia Stickel, Zoie Lambesis and Sean Gannon.

OPINION

SUPPORT THE BLUE LAUREN HAGGAR As a proud American it is truly saddening how our country has forgotten who the true,

ing African Americans. What makes them such a threat to society is not only do they have

“Police show up to save your life while also risking theirs.”

police stand courageously to protect the right to a peaceful protest. Now, when these pro-

lawful reason to tell you to do something, then my suggestion is to do that, and we will

September, Opinion, page 6 6 â– SEPTEMBER 25, 2017

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

OPINION

OPINION

VOUCHERS EMPOWER FAMILIES WITH SCHOOL CHOICE EMMA RUSSELLO The ongoing battle between public and private schools shines through in what seems like the never ending school voucher debate.

The expansion of the Empowerment Scholarship Program, or school vouchers, was supposed to go into effect this past August, but a referendum headed by Save Our Schools has put it on hold until November 2018, when Arizona voters can now have their say in the matter.

BILL CAPPED AT 30,000 The bill made all 1.1 million Arizona students able to apply for the voucher program, which grants tax dollars to parents for private-school tuition. The bill capped the amount of students

able to use them at 30,000 by 2020. There are many different sides and viewpoints on the topic, with public schools mostly opposing of the school vouchers, and private schools for them.

Now, every parent pays taxes towards education through their property tax, so they should be able to use those tax dollars to educate their child wherever they feel their child would excel.

The parents who are sending their child to a private school are paying their taxes towards the public schools while still paying their full tuition towards their private school. They should be able to use those tax dollars where they please. It should not be the government's job to dictate where every child goes to

school based on where they live.

Parents who cannot afford to reside in good neighborhoods instead have to live in gangdriven or poorer parts of the state and have no say in where their child goes to school. This means that they are probably stuck going to a school with less funding and less educated teachers. A school voucher program will allow these parents to get some extra help with sending their child to a nearby private school of their choice, offering them a better education and more opportunities overall.

Some might argue that those poorer parents would be able to get financial aid or some other type of help to get their child through a tuition-type school.

This is true, but what about the middle class families who have enough money to not be able to qualify for financial aid, but also cannot afford to send multiple kids through a private school that might be better suited for their family? The school voucher system will benefit those living in poorer cities and the middle class families who cannot receive regular benefits.

LESS MONEY FOR SCHOOLS Others who disapprove of the school voucher system argue that it will funnel money away from the public schools, causing them to do even worse. Public school systems receive some amount of money every year from the government based on

the amount of children in that school. Because of this, public schools are forced to follow specific regulations such as where they use that money, standardized testing, and more. If the state creates a free market system through the use of vouchers, then there will be more competition throughout the schools, and overall better performance.

According to US News, Arizona is ranked 43 in education overall, 44 in high school graduation rates, 37 in college readiness, and 47 in Pre-K through 12 education. We do need to change something in the Arizona school system, and allow children to get the best education suited for them.

OPINION

LIKE THE GENERALS, THEY MUST FALL

T

HE

Despite arguments about preserving history, the statues represent racism and hatred and need to be removed.

GRIFFIN GOLDSTEIN

removal of the Robert E. Lee statue in Charlottesville, Virginia has been delayed. It was rightfully sentenced to be removed from its pedestal for its distasteful meaning in April, but white suprema-

and three counts of malicious wounding. Fields has a history of showing a compelling interest for nazism and has been known for not being a very friendly person.

There is no way that people are willing to go to extremes like this for a statue. Crimes like

ing among people who find it offensive.

People defending the statue believe that taking it down would be an act of censorship and that history shouldn’t be suppressed, for the sake of not forgetting lessons learned and repeating mistakes that have

October, Opinion, page 5

OPINION THE DIVIDED STATES OF AMERICA

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

Ever since America was founded, different groups of peoagainst what the United States is intended to stand for. ple have debated viewpoints on important issues. Nearly 241 Something that the country does not see much of very years later and modern day America is more divided than more is bipartisanship, or the cooperation of two political ever. parties who usually do not see eye to eye. Ronald Reagan was It seems as if there is an argument to be made over every known for this by meeting with his democratic Speaker of issue, no matter how small. Democrats and Republicans simthe House, Tip O’Neill, despite their dramatically opposing ply cannot agree on anything. This might have something to political views. This was an important step that goes virtually do with the growing of technology and social media and how unseen now, as almost every bill placed in front of Congress it can influence an entire country. goes unpassed. Because democrats and republicans have lost According to studies done by the Pew Research Center the ability to communicate in a respectful and calm environin 2016, six in 10 adults get their news from social media ment, no bill is able to pass, no matter how big or small. sources. 66 percent of Facebook users say they get their news It is vital that America changes its ways, especially when from the site, increasing by 19 percent from 2013. the majority leaders in the House and Senate are of different Social media also had a huge impact on the 2016 election, political parties then the president. something no election has ever seen before. Fake news sites When in the wake of tragedies like the Las Vegas massafiltered into almost every social media site during the eleccre, or when seeing NFL players kneel during the national tion, and made many question what was true. Many anthem, it is important to assess your opinas we see it fake news articles can display infuriating articles, and ions on the issues at hand. Without opinwhen a piece goes unverified, parties began bumping ions, nothing would ever change. America is heads over issues that were not even real. founded on a variety of beliefs and ideas. It is People sharing fake news articles and attacking others’ imperative that others’ opinions are respected as well, in fact, opinions in such a brutal way on all social media platforms differing opinions should be celebrated. The United States of can cause an uproar of retweets and likes, causing users to America is established upon free speech, and each and every grow completely divided. citizen is entitled to that right.

In this generation, it seems if someone has an unpopular Before citizens are Republicans or Democrats, they are opinion and chooses to voice it, they get completely ridiculed, American, and this is something that our country should and it is causing some to just not voice theirs at all, which goes never forget.

the editorial

The EDITORIAL represents the consensus view of the members of the Editorial Board.

The Editorial Board members are Kiera Riley, Katelyn Reinhart, Lauren Haggar, Annalee Barnett, Maddie Howard, Mia Gilling, Sara Windom, Emma Russello, Grace Haycraft-McKee, Faith Hasher, Olivia Stickel, Zoie Lambesis and Sean Gannon.

WELL ID BE DARNED “The problem is that this rule does not compensate for students who simply forgot their ID at home.”

OPINION

GRIFFIN GOLDSTEIN

November, Food Picture, page 11 food stuff

Arizona’s first food festival dedicated events, he asked attendees at the Street Eats entirely to pizza will take place in festival what they wanted to see next.

Downtown Phoenix.

“Pizza was the unanimous response,” said

"I'd thought about hosting a pizza festival forever, but there were never enough restaurants with mobile ovens. Now that there are enough, I decided to pull the trigger,” David Tyda, the food festival organizer of Phoenix

According to their website, “The Phoenix Pizza Festival is the first festival in Arizona dedicated to the best food ever: pizza! This affordable event brings together great pizza makers and local businesses for an amazing day of cheesy awesomeness."

Roughly 3,500 people are expected to attend and enjoy vendors like La Piazza Al Forno PHX, Kono Pizza, Nicastro’s Wood Fired Pizza, and more along with lawn games, dessert vendors, drinks, a kids craft zone, and live bands.

“I love going downtown and going to music and food festivals in Phoenix,” said Holland Loberg, a junior. “It's a really cool concept.”

Past food festivals in downtown Phoenix were also a hit, like Street Eats Food Truck festival, the Taco Festival, and Barbeque Festival, all put on by David Tyda, the food festival organizer of Phoenix. Following the success of these

Phoenix hosts a pizza party

Tyda. "I'd thought about hosting a pizza festival forever, but there were never enough restaurants with mobile ovens. Now that there are enough, I decided to pull the trigger.”

One unique aspect about this festival that makes it a little more personal to Phoenix attendees is that a lot of its vendors are local pizzerias. They will be making their pizzas fresh, and in different ways so guests can try new kinds of pizzas (or hunt down their favorites).

“Wood fired pizza, in my opinion, tastes way better,” said Julien Barab, a junior. “It slow cooks the pizza from all around instead of just getting blasted with heat from below like a normal oven would do.”

A portion of the proceeds from the festivals Tyda puts on are donated to a select charity or organization; this year’s will be Downtown Phoenix Inc., an organization dedicated to cultivating a thriving downtown.

Located at Margaret T. Hance Park on Central Avenue and next to the Phoenix Public Library, attendees can spend the day eating and relaxing on the lawn. The festival’s lineup includes music from Celebration Guns, Some Dark Hollow, People Who Could Fly, and The Haymarket Squares.

The event will start at 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tickets are $10 to get inside, but all food and drink items will be an additional fee. Babies and toddlers enter free. More information can be found at www.phoenix.pizza.

Annie Sogaard staff writer

MIKEY RUSSELO ENJOYS a slice of pizza from the Patio Bar and Grill.

4EMMA RUSSELO

THANKFUL FOR VEGETABLES Tender turkey, butter-soaked rolls, and sausage stuffing line the table. Fats and oils glisten off freshly-baked brown sugar ham while the smell of sweet casseroles linger in the air.

To some, this sounds like paradise.

But, to vegans and vegetarians, this scene might as well be a nightmare.

It is no mystery that Thanksgiving is not typically veggie friendly. With a

dairy-free vegetarian.

With the rise of plant-based lifestyles also comes more recipes and substitutes for classic Thanksgiving grub. With a few easy switches, both vegans and vegetarians find food that fits their individual diets.

Starting with some classics, a variety of companies create “tofur-

Ingredients range between the different brands, but all share the common use of grains, soy, and other vegetables.

For those who wish to stray away from fake meat, side dishes can easily be swapped for vegan or vegetarian alternatives.

“For the most part, you don’t need to use butter, you don’t need to use whole milk, you

“For the most part, you don’t need to use butter, you don’t need to use whole milk, you can use

teacher and pescatarian.

Creating dishes like sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, cornbread, and biscuits, using non-dairy butter and milk is a breeze. Some of the most popular brands for these substitutes are Earth Balance, Smart Balance, Silk, Almond Breeze, and Kalifa.

More complicated dishes like gravy or stuffing also offer room for substitutions. Using mushrooms, onions, vege-

plant-based stuffing is both satisfactory and delicious.

To expand the palette even further, any and all veggies add nutritious value to a Thanksgiving feast.

“I like a lot of cooked veggies like brussel sprouts and green beans. To cook them, I drizzle with coconut or olive oil and add salt, pepper, and garlic,” said Alyssa Chavka, a senior and vegan.

Pies and other sweet treats are eas-

a nerd

ng programs for stuained popularity and a ng students.

nal programs offered, the International rogram is among the ones that have y for academic rigor. Their mission r central goal to create a better world im to develop culturally aware, edus.

pose

reate (IB) itself was founded in 1968 n, and within it are four educational 4,775 schools across the globe. The e Primary Years Program, open to chille Years Program, for students 11-16, hich is the one featured at Cactus -19, and the newly developed Career e group. These programs all sepaopment of young children as learners, ke connections between their lives ally preparing them to apply all their dge and critical thinking abilities in unin their careers. knew I wanted to fulfill the maximum , and to do the most I could to proes for myself as possible,” said Gabe n IB diploma opens an incredible in terms or out-of-state college accep-

y recognized the program is, its intenaration, students who apply to Ivy here from three to 13 percent more acceptance rate into Yale University s seven percent, but for IB students 8 percent. ties view IB students as those who are willing to work hard to achieve it,” ent of two IB graduates. n greater scholarship opportunities developed better time management enefit them throughout college and

November, Spotlight, page 14 DRAMA CLUB: INSPECTED With the arrival of new play, Government Inspector, members of Drama Club put their best lines forward.

F

OLLOWING tradition, Cactus

Shadows drama club put on this year’s fall production, Government Inspector, a satirical play with out of the ordinary characters.

The play is about a town full of humorous personalities that hear the government inspector is coming to their small suburb. Each character thinks that they know who he is, but are incorrect and spend the whole play trying to persuade who they thought to be the inspector, that their town is perfect.

This play was very different than most other school productions drama club has put on in the past years, but it was quite entertaining.

The script was confusing at some times, and it was difficult to remember the names of all the characters, especially because they were so eccentric.

Tara Prager, a senior, played the Governor's wife, Anna Andreyevana, who likes to flirt with all the men in the town whether they are available or not. Her facial expressions and lines were hysterical, and she encompassed her character very well.

“No one really knows this play and it's really funny, witty and satirical, and it's really fun to just get to have fun with such a good script,” said Prager.

The script was very comical, but contained some PG-13 innuendos, but were nothing the

average high school student has not heard before. While some viewers said it was not suited for all audiences, the jokes were so funny that many in the auditorium seats did not even think about it.

Benjamin Gerst, a junior who plays the main character who is thought to be the government inspector, had many lines and repeated them very well throughout the show, looking as if he did not forget a single word. He also presented his lines in an amusing way.

“The cast is all so great, and I feel like we’re all very close and have good chemistry,” said Gerst.

As an audience member looking in, Gerst was correct about the chemistry between the characters. It looked like they all had a lot of fun performing, and seemed comfortable with each other.

The sets were realistic, but there were only a rotation of a couple different settings, making the background a little boring and easily forgettable. The sets were not as good as previous spring musicals and productions, but they did look like the students put a lot of work into them.

Emma Russello

ore benefits than just the ones availe program. demic rigor; we’re meeting so many oming so close and making relationhave for the rest of our lives,” said or and IB student.

ents who plan on entering the two begin with taking “Pre-IB” classes, s or AP classes their freshman and rigorous classes help build a strong t also help future IB students get to ak down any misconceptions about

I was a little scared because I had ries about crazy workloads and having ing. Truth be told, it’s not as scary as . We have a lot of fun,” said Quenzler.

IB can contact Pam Menton, the IB elor at Cactus Shadows.

Annie Sogaard

STANDING AT CENTER STAGE, Drew Johnson (junior) and Tara Prager (senior) finally perform the Government Inspector after weeks of rehearsals. 4OLIVIA PALMER

a math teacher and adviser.

Mason Russo, a senior.

Since Bender noticed many people wanted to play for different cancers, and there was a difficultly working with the past charity, she decided to add one more commodity.

“For instance, if you're playing for prostate cancer, you can embellish your jersey in light blue. So we’ll see everybody on the field wearing different colors to represent all cancers,” said Bender.

While working with the breast cancer charity, Susan G. Koman, Steve Bebee, principal and both student council representatives realized it was a difficult process to undergo.

“Like any big corporation or organization they have a brand to protect and so as such they had a lot of rules and restrictions which we had to follow in order to be able to use them,” said

football.”

the cure and it was just fun to play either way,” said Phoebe Cook, a senior.

The change of charity this year to Stand up to Cancer brought a more colorful look to the field with all the cancers being represented.

ON THE SIDELINES, Kyle Kort, a senior, coaches the girls during the annual powder puff game.

During Powder Puff, the football team will coach while the girls play football. 4OLIVIA PALMER

December, Sports, page 27

DURING THE ANNUAL POWDER PUFF GAME, Jordan Lund, a junior,

holds a sign displaying a cancer victim’s name.

4OLIVIA PALMER

Cactus Shadows senior athletes cement their intent Student athletes sign letters of intent to colleges that have presented offers to play their sport. Only a handful are given this opportunity each year.

By EMMA RUSSELLO g travel editor

RECEIVING AN OFFER AND committing to play a college sport is an opportunity that only a handful of students can receive.

Senior students have begun signing their letters of intent to schools all around the country.

According to the National Collegiate Athletic Association, out of the nearly eight million students currently playing high school athletics, only 480,000 will go on to play at an NCAA college.

Kendall Bennett, a senior, has signed her National Letter of Intent to swim at San Diego State

University next year.

“I’m really passionate about swimming and I think that participating in a collegiate sport gives you a unique opportunity to represent your school,” said Bennett.

Some students obtain several different offers, and have trouble making their final decision.

“I made my decision mostly based off of the team. I love the coaches and the other girls on the team & SDSU has great facilities and assets available to student athletes and it’s a place where I can see myself succeeding in both my studies and swimming,” said Bennett.

Bennett is receiving an scholar-

ship and she says that her coach, teammates and family influenced her the most during her high school swimming career.

Caitlin Bickle, a senior, will be attending Baylor University in Texas on a full ride scholarship for basketball.

“Signing my letter of intent was the best feeling I could ever have, considering I tore my ACL and meniscus before I had signed. I was worried that it would affect me for college so it felt great to make my commitment official,” said Bickle Students who are interested in playing a collegiate sport have to start putting themselves out there

as soon as freshman or sophomore year.

“Follow the NCAA rules on communications but start emailing coaches as soon as possible. It helps keep it less stressful once senior year comes around and you have recruiting trips and have to apply for colleges,” said Bennett.

Bickle’s strategy for students trying to play a college sport is somewhat different from Bennett’s.

“My advice for younger kids is to keep working hard, surround yourself with others that want the same goal, and to trust in the process,” said Bickle.

Jim Swetter, athletic director

and assistant principal, said that it is satisfying to see students reaching their goals, and is special to celebrate those student athletes who are going to the next level.

“Coaches are continuing to further their athletes mental and physical capabilities, teach them the skills for the next level and work with them to contact coaches and colleges,” said Swetter.

The varsity and club coaches for all different sports help their athletes, and try to further their athletic career as much as possible.

Designs

September Travel Spread travel

Traveling overseas could have dangerous consequences

DRAMA CLUB STUDENTS EXPLORED London’s Big Ben. The

students were there in June during the terror attacks.

4BLAKE BRADSHAW

W

ITH recent terror attacks, natu-

ral disasters, and other alarming events, the safety of travel is being called into question.

However, whether or not it is safe to travel at all may be a matter of perspective.

“I wouldn’t go to Belgium, I wouldn’t go to Paris, you know, the list gets really small really quick. There’s just a lot of scary things going on in the world,” said Jeffrey Carpenter, a government teacher.

Last June, Andrew Cupo, a drama teacher, and several drama club students took a trip to London during the time of the London Bridge terror attack. The students were in their hotel when they heard about it.

“I was scared because one of the attacks happened on the London Bridge, and we were on the London Bridge that morning, so it was like one of those things that makes you go, ‘oh’,”

With travel warnings and terror attacks happening in popular travel destinations, some people are taking special precautions and others are not worried. Annalee Barnett discusses the London terror attacks, and how the drama club students felt during this time. said Maggie Ewens, a senior who attended the trip.

Events like the London terror attack, which are happening worldwide, are exactly what is calling into question the safety of travel. According to the U.S. Department of State, there are travel warnings and alerts in more than 50 countries.

Travel alerts are set in place for short term events like strikes or protests, health issues, and high risks of terror attacks, while travel warnings are set in place for countries with civil war, high of crime and violence rates, and common terror attacks.

Countries such as Cuba, Mexico, parts of Europe, Philippines, Egypt and more all have significant travel warnings.

Recently, there has been a travel warning set for Cancun and Los Cabos in Mexico by the U.S. State Department, which are very popular tourist destinations, and usually thought of as pretty

safe places. According to the State Department's website, these warnings were set because of the spike in kidnappings and the tainting of alcohol, causing death in some cases.

“Bad stuff is going to happen either way and I’m not going to try and control it. I’m not going to let it prevent me from doing things in life. It’s the world we live in,” said Olivia Palmer, a junior who attended the drama trip to London.

Traveling to foreign countries, especially for Americans, can either be safe or very dangerous, depending on what precautions are taken.

Avoiding American establishments like Hilton hotels, Burger Kings, and McDonald’s is a way to take precautions against terror attacks.

“Be very selective where you travel, be very selective with the countries you go to. If you’re going overseas, stay away from the Middle East,” said Carpenter.

Information on the different travel warn-

ings and alerts can be found at travel.state. gov, the official website for U.S. Passports and International Travel.

Flight expenses lower before holidays When airfare drops to more affordable prices, many people rush to buy tickets to their favorite places.

With the price of plane tickets falling at different times of the year, people are taking the time to travel and see the world on off seasons. Days like these, such as the later weeks of January, due to the end of the New Year’s travel rush, make the tickets even more affordable to those second-guessing whether or not they should get on that flight.

August 23 marks the beginning of the fall travel season, when most kids go back to school, reducing the demand for leisure travel significantly. If less people want to fly, airlines drop prices to make it look like more of an option. Getting tickets in September and October can be more affordable than intrigue SEPTEMBER 2017

near the holiday season.

Some airlines will participate in this, and others will not. However, those that do usually see a drop in prices of anywhere from 10 to 20 percent, which can save consumers hundreds of dollars on international travel.

Once prices drop, they only stay down until around Thanksgiving, when most take the time to fly and see family for the holidays.

With this, there are still certain days of the week that are cheaper for travel, such as Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so make sure to pay attention to the day when booking.

According to the Huffington Post, 54 days before takeoff is when flights within the U.S. are the absolute cheapest. The prime booking window is between 105 and 21 days

before the desired flight.

When booking flights for out of the country, there will almost always be a layover, especially from Phoenix. Instead of booking the flight with a layover, book the first part of the trip separately from the second part.

For example, if one wanted to book a trip to Italy, they should book their flight to an international airport such as JFK, and then separately book their flight to Italy from JFK. This can sometimes be cheaper then just booking straight through.

Luc Flaschentrager staff writer

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October Travel Spread travel

MILLIONS CELEBRATE THEIR ANCESTORS Starting on October 31, citizens celebrate Dia de Los Muertos, a Spanish holiday, by dressing up as skeletons, baking all kinds of foods, and showing appreciation to their ancestors.

According to National Geographic, Dia de Los Muertos started in Mexico and was brought there by the Spanish conquistadors. November 1 is known as All Saint’s Day, while November 2 is known as All Soul’s Day. The people of Mexico come together to celebrate their ancestors by dressing up in traditional costumes, such as skeletons, eating food, and creating memoriams, including altars.

“I absolutely love the pan de muerto, it is my favorite food on this holiday for sure. I also had a lot of fun when I decorated a sugar skull. I just doused it in paint and made it fun,” said Mackenzie Moller, a senior and former Spanish student.

On the first day of this three day holiday, the gates of heaven are opened and the souls are released to enjoy the celMakenzie ebrations with their families.

Moller, a senior To remember their loved ones, people who celebrate this holiday typically make a memoriam called an altar. An altar usually includes photos of the deceased family member, flowers, pan de muerto, candles, and things that the family member may have liked.

“Spanish club has actually made some altars for competitions and we have taken them to the Heard Museum in Phoenix,” said Jocelyn Raught, a Spanish teacher.

Some may get Dia de Los Muertos confused with Halloween. These two holidays have a similar spooky tone to them, but Dia de Los Muertos is about celebrating those who have passed while Halloween is about getting scared and dressing up in costumes.

“The whole skull thing is why people get these two holidays confused. In Dia de Los Muertos, the skulls represent the circle of life,” said Raught.

Not only is Dia de Los Muertos celebrated in Mexico, but it is also celebrated in Venezuela, Colombia, Perú, Ecuador, El Salvador, Haiti, and Nicaragua.The ritual dates back almost 3,000 years.

“I absolutely love the pan de muerto, it is my favorite food on this holiday for sure.”

Maddie Howard

On the pumpkin hunt There are an assortment of places to pick pumpkins this year in Arizona, whether one desires to go local with McDonald's Ranch or choose to travel a bit to Mother Nature’s Farm in Gilbert.

McDonald's Ranch located on Jomax Road and Scottsdale Road, is open every day excluding Tuesdays, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The ten dollar admission fee contains a free hayride or locomotive ride to the pumpkin patch where there are different pumpkins to choose from.

“We actually get our pumpkins down in Wilcox at Annie's Orchard,” said Robert Richardson, the owner of McDonalds Ranch.

With five sizes of pumpkins available, the price of a pumpkin can range from four dollars to sixteen.

Back at the ranch, guests are welcome to pet animals at the petting zoo, pan for gold, run around through the hay maze and play an array of western games. The ranch is fully equipped with the Blazin’ Barbeque to satisfy any hunger strikes.

When pumpkins are not in season, McDonald’s Ranch offers horseback rides, cookouts, and western games.

If one is willing to travel a bit more, Mother Nature’s Farm is located on Baseline Rd. in Gilbert.

They are open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day.

The ten dollar fee for kids and five dollar fee for adults gets you a pumpkin, stickers for decorating your pumpkin, the air bounce for your kids to jump and play on, a hayride, feeding animals, and full access to the hay maze. Guests can also visit Maneus Market for fall decorations.

They have pumpkins ranging from one ounce to 500 pounds.

Mother Nature’s Farm is a family owned business. They open every October and stay open until Halloween.

They also offer popcorn, cotton candy, snow cones, hot dogs, and drinks for purchasing.

Maja Peirce staff writer

A LONE PUMPKIN scarecrow located at McDonald’s Ranch. The ranch is

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creeker editor

Pay to be scared

Students visit haunted houses to celebrate Halloween.

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WITH THE COOL WEATHER, SPOOKY DECORATIONS, and pumpkin flavored food coming into season, the tradition of haunted houses returns to the valley.

Phoenix is home to some of the most renowned haunted houses in the nation, such as Fear Farm, the 13th Floor and Scarizona Scaregrounds.

“I love haunted houses, I don’t know why...being scared just gives you a crazy adrenaline rush and it’s definitely one of my favorite things to do,” said Nicole McLaughlin, a senior.

McLaughlin has been to more than six different haunted houses, both in and out of state.

With more than 2,500 haunted attractions in the United States, there is a constant plethora of

haunts to discover.

“Personally, I hate haunted houses. I get scared super easily, so even watching a scary movie is enough to get my skin crawling,” said Kaitlyn Walker, a senior.

Fear Farm, which is one of Arizona’s most popular attractions is located on 27 acres of land.

The farm consists of five different houses which include Dark Carnival, Bunker: Area X, Undead, Slaughterhouse, and Legend: The Witch.

Fear Farm also features a maze of corn a Phoenix Haunted Hayride, several food trucks, and other activities.

“I love the chainsaws, it gets your heart pounding. That’s why you go to haunted houses in the

first place, to get you heart pumping,” said Jacob Goulder, a math teacher.

Fear Farm is open from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., and the price of a ticket is $26.99 to $33.99 for general admission.

Another popular attraction, The 13th Floor consists of 60,000 square feet of theatrical horror. The haunted house has two attractions: Ancient Evil and Zombieland. The 13th Floor is open from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. throughout the month of October.

The haunted house industry has made roughly $300 million in revenue.

Annalee Barnett sports editor

OCTOBER 2017 intrigue

November Travel Spread travel

senior shots With the first semester coming to an end, there is limited time to take senior pictures. Grace HaycraftMcKee suggests the best local spots to take them.

With all the music festivals hitting the states, students everywhere are packing up and travelling across the country.

SPUR CROSS CONSERVATION

LILY CRISTANTE, a senior, stands in the middle of winter trees in Spur Cross.

About 4 miles north of Frontier Town, Spur Cross is home to many trees, plants, and creeks. There are various hiking routes that lead to the most unique views. Not one trail has the same scenery as the other, which provides an array of choices when taking senior pictures.

4 GRACE HAYCRAFT-MCKEE OLIVIA STICKEL, a senior, poses outside of an art shop in Downtown Phoenix.

4 ZOIE LAMBESIS

DOWNTOWN PHOENIX For some fun and colorful pictures, downtown is the place to be. All over downtown Phoenix, there are murals covering almost every street. A few buildings even have roof access, which make for the perfect opportunity to get the city in the background .

FRONTIER TOWN

TARA PRAGER, a senior, standing in front of a rustic shop in Fronteir Town.

4 GRACE HAYCRAFT-MCKEE intrigue NOVEMBER 2017

FOLLOWING THE BEAT

For western shots, Frontier Town has it all. There are many locations that combine rustic objects and nature for the perfect “Cave Creek” picture. Many restaurants and shops contain scenery that has a western vibe.

Teenagers who are looking into traveling for an upcoming music festival can attend the event without having to break the bank.

“Out of state festivals are a completely different experience than in-state, and definitely worth the hype,” said Anna Draper, festival goer of two years.

Traveling for music festivals in different cities gives festival attendee’s a chance to experience a new place with new people. Music festivals are generally all about the whole experience, which includes the music, atmosphere, people, art displays, and fashion. It is a place where people can express themselves freely and enjoy their time being at that location.

“Camp Flog Gnaw is my all time favorite music festival because I can be myself and I can dance with people who don’t care what people think,” said Aless Zamora, who has been going to festivals for 11 years.

Tickets for festivals such as Coachella, Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo and more can cost up to $450, not including travel fees, hotel fees, and food. However, by knowing how to travel for a music festival, the cost of attending can significantly decrease.

“Get a job and do some research on how much you need to save.

There are packages that you can buy that cover a place to stay, transportation, and the festival itself. So that is why it is important to do research first,” said Draper.

Knowing people that live in the area of the festival is one way to save money on housing. However, if that is not possible, travelers can

use Airbnb to find a place to stay.

Airbnb is an app that people post their entire house or extra bedroom to rent for a short amount of time.

The cost of renting an Airbnb is significantly less than renting a hotel for a weekend.

Also, some music festivals offer a camping site on the festival ground, so that it makes it less complicated for the non-locals to navigate throughout the event.

“Country Thunder is my favorite music festival to attend because I love country music and we have a trailer so we do the whole camping experience, which helps us save money because than we can bring our own food and drinks,” said Brittney Dodd, an english teacher 5 year attendee of Country Thunder.

Using public transportation and share riding apps, one can get to and from the concert safely and inexpensively. Companies like Uber and Lyft will sometimes sponsor music festivals and give out discount codes.

Along with that is public transportation.

Often, if the festival goer shows the concert Anna Draper ticket they can get on the transportation system for free.

Over the years, dressing up for music festivals has become a trend.

Being comfortable and wearing the right things for an all day event can make or break the festival.

“Wear shoes you don’t mind if they get stepped on a lot, and always be prepared with water,” said Zamora.

One should pack essentials such as chapstick, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a portable charger. These are items that most concert goers reach for during day long festivals.

“Get a job and do some research on how much you need to save. There are packages that you can buy that cover a place to stay, transportation, and the festival itself. So that is why it is important to do research first,”

Zoie Lambesis Food Editor

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December Travel Spread travel

lighting up the night

A FAMILY ENJOYING

the inside of a life size, lit up ornament at Illumination AZ

4 BROOK BOWMAN

With the holidays right around the corner, Audrey Fowler discusses different places to take one’s friends and families to look at holiday light displays.

As the holidays come around, the hunt for festive things to do begins.

Christmas lights line the streets and all the community Christmas trees go up. People looking for a holiday event to attend with their friends or families have many different options around the valley.

Illumination AZ

This year, Illumination AZ, the largest drivethru light show visits town. Located on the east side of the I-17, this light show has millions of lights synchronized to Christmas music throughout a mile long drive. After the drive, Illumination offers a stretch of holiday oriented tents along with hot cocoa and food trucks. The cost per car is $29.50

Zoo Lights

The annual Zoo Lights started Nov. 22 and

continues through Jan. 14. The Phoenix Zoo brightens up their exhibits and has a three-story Christmas tree.

“They have a lot of statues of the animals that light up. I went with my family and it was a great time,” said Jessica Mullet, a junior.

The majority of the animals can not be seen from the walkways, but the zoo has millions of lights setup that depict the animals they have.

Lights shaped like monkeys swing around while lions run by, and giraffes nibble on trees.

“Some of the animals you can see are otters and camels. I got to ride a camel named Isaac, so that was pretty awesome,” said Chase Kriby, a junior.

Admission is $19.95.

Glendale Glitters

1.6 million lights illuminate the sixteen blocks of historic Downtown Glendale. Glendale Glitters, named one of the top 5 best holiday light displays, is the largest display of lights for

Scottsdazzle

Dine, shop and experience the events at this years Scottsdazzle. The city of Scottsdale lit up their tree the day after Thanksgiving to kick off their month long holiday event. Scottsdazzle also holds a free “Cowboy Christmas”, which features bands as well as a petting zoo. While out and about, stop by some of Scottsdale’s finest boutiques and stores.

Beginning on Dec. 16, 5th avenue turns into sugar plum avenue featuring a ballet performance of the Nutcracker as well as other interactive performances and events.

Lights of the World

Also named one of the to 5 holiday light displays by USA Today, Lights of the World returns with a shocking 10 million lights making it the largest lantern and light display in North America. This festival takes a more traditional Chinese approach to holiday events.

Lights of the World has 75 displays that bring to lights different cultures. However, millions of lights are not the only thing this festival brings to the valley. Cultural cuisine and carnival rides add to the experience. Displays include, a Chinese dragon, a golden gate, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the London Bridge and much more. Tickets can be purchased on etix.com for $18, and the event is located at the Arizona State Fairgrounds.

TRAVEL ALERT

WHERE DO YOU TRAVEL OVER WINTER BREAK?

Beginning Jan. 22, citizens of nine states will not be able to travel domestically without a valid form of ID, such as a passport or military ID, different from their drivers licence.

W EMMA RUSSELLO intrigue DECEMBER 2017

free in the valley. This glowing light display has several events each weekend that range from special guests to local bands, as well as performances from dance companies across Arizona.

Visitors can enjoy dinner downtown then walk around to view their lights. One can grab some hot cocoa and hop on the carriage ride through the historic district.

“I am going to Glendale Glitters, I love Christmas lights and I love the lights they just put me in the holiday spirit,” said Debbie Dowd, Assistant to Principal of Academics.

These states include Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Washington.

The reasoning behind the requirements for these specific states comes from the Real ID Act of 2005, which was passed as a direct result of 9/11, and forces state identification to reach certain security requirements. The states listed above do not meet those standards, so citizens must have their passports or a military ID as another valid form of identification.

A valid driver's license will be allowed if one is flying in or out of one of the listed states,

because this only applies to citizens of the respected states.

Currently, only 24 states meet the security standards of the Real ID Act, and besides the nine listed above, the other states have been given extension to comply. The process to change a statewide ID is very lengthy, meaning that it may take a long time to get those bills passed due to concerns of privacy and reissuing most people in the state a new and improved drivers license would take a lot of money and resources.

Until the nine states do a statewide change of drivers licences that adhere to the security standards, citizens of these states will need another form of ID to travel anywhere.

Avianna Hoppes Staff Writer

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