Zeeb starts a new year
spotlight
Wrapping up her first year of teaching, Kristine Zeeb, a math teacher, reflects on the journey that has brought her to teaching in room 1003. Starting as a student-teacher, Zeeb picked up the job mid-year last year and was hired as a Geometry teacher. This year she is teaching Pre-Calculus and Algebra 3/4.
“We’ve been friends since last summer; we actually met when both of our ex-boyfriends, who were best friends, dumped us at the same time. We learned that girls are definitely better than guys; we stick together through everything,”
Starting Out
At the age of 22, Zeeb knew she wanted to be a teacher after previously studying film editing. “I went to Scottsdale Community College and got my Associates in Arts, and then became the lead technician of the film school. Then, eventually worked my way up to becoming a faculty member there and teaching film editing. I knew I wanted to do more with this kind of profession and help out kids,” said Zeeb. Last year, Zeeb taught Geometry for a semester, and now promises she will never go back to the subject. “I don’t like Geometry. I’m much better at teaching Algebra and Calculus. Now that I’ve taught for more than a semester for the same students, it’s so much easier. And, this year I’m dealing with juniors and seniors, which is day and night to teaching freshmen or sophomores,” said Zeeb. “My classes now are individually unique. I have so many different students with different wants and needs. There’s so much growing each kid does through these periods of their life.”
LAUREN LOCKET AND LAUREN BLAU, juniors
M
ATT Blackert, a visual artist and senior, began shooting skating videos at a young age, and has cultivated his craft of filming music videos. Although he has been filming since age 9, he began skating years before 5. “I started skateboarding at the age of 5 because my sister had mentioned that she thought skating was the coolest thing ever and I just really wanted her to think I was cool,” said Blackert.
Collabs and Connections
Making a Difference
Currently, Zeeb is learning to appreciate those special Cave Creek moments. “Teaching has taught me that everyone has their own expectations of themselves. Everybody has problems, a different way of thinking, or has struggled with some type of education. And, it’s just recognizing the fact that everyone is unique through learning and teaching. You really have to appreciate those differences in people,” Zeeb said. “No matter what happens, I try to remember after all of the politics that the most important thing is the reason I’m here is for you guys and this is why I teach.” To Olivia Palmer, a junior in Zeeb’s Pre-Calculus class, her fourth period classroom has become much more than just a place to learn unit circles. “Zeeb can be very real with her students. During the digital citizenship assembly when all the boys left, she gave the girls actual real advice about sexual harassment in the workplace and what to do. What she said was actually valuable,” said Palmer. Zeeb admits that, not only did she prioritize this subject to the girls, but to the boys as well. “Generally, everyone should expect to be treated well. If they aren’t being treated well, they should be asking, ‘Is this normal? Is this weird?’ One of the biggest things I want to make sure my students know the type of communication and openness of the subject they should be having,” said Zeeb. “I want to be breaking down the barriers for women and for them to know it’s not their fault. Instead, learn exactly how to deal with the situation.”
Through growing up skating and networking within the community, Blackert has developed a web of connections to showcase his work with. “He hit me up through Instagram and told me that he was working on a pretty big project that he wanted me to be a part of, and he gave me some names of the other people in it, and I’m homies with most of the people on the project, and they're all really dope skaters so I was down,” said Dre Young, a skater currently working with Blackert. As of late, Blackert has been adding more variety to the types of films he is creating. He started shooting music videos with some local rappers to the Phoenix area such as Terner. “I love collaborating with skaters mostly because I can often times suggest tricks that I will never be capable of doing, that they never thought of actually being able to land. But I prefer collaborating with musicians most, because we can just spitball ideas back and forth that will lead us to visions we may never have had if it weren’t for collaborating. I also just love seeing the vision come alive,” said Blackert.
“Fashion is a form of expression; it helped me express myself more and stand out from the crowd. I would describe my personal style as bohemian fairy,”
BRIANNA FOGELSON, a sophomore
Connections and Quirks
Known for her caffeine addiction, Zeeb claims that she’s been drinking sodas out of sippy cups since she was two years old. Once she hit the age of 14 or 15, she started drinking Red Bulls daily. Additionally, Zeeb is also known for her obsession with Stars Wars, decorating her classroom with quotes and pictures of the cast. “My brother was the one who really liked it. I remember whenever I was too sick to go to school, my mom would have my brother stay home with me, and we would watch Star Wars all day. After that, I really got into the books since my teacher was encouraging me to read more,” said Zeeb. “The movie and books have just been there for me through all of my struggles and I like the idea that they are just good people promoting the idea of good vs. evil.” Julee Negron, a Pre-Calculus student, has also made a personal connection with the new teacher. “Mrs. Zeeb is a really genuine person and cares for all of her students. Teachers tend to take her for granted since she is so young, but I’ve learned so much from her with math and the outside world,” said Negron. Living by the quote, “If you help one student, you’ve changed the world,” that her friend once told her, Zeeb will continue to move through this year and the years to come, hoping to become a role model or mentor to each of her students.
4 MAJA PEIRCE
4MIA GILLING
staff writer
FEBRUARY 2018 intrigue
Starting off with best picture, nominees include Call Me By Your Name, The Darkest Hour, Dunkirk, Get Out, Lady Bird, Phantom Thread, The Post, The Shape Of Water, and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. Of these nominees, I would select Get Out as my choice winner solely because of its uniqueness and different approach to the horror genre. The nominees for actor in a leading role are Timothée Chalamet (Call Me by Your Name), Daniel Day-Lewis, (Phantom Thread), Daniel Kaluuya, (Get Out), Gary Oldman, (Darkest Hour), Denzel Washington, (Roman J. Israel, Esq.) Out of the picks, I regretfully do not have a solid choice because I feel as though there are multiple actors deserving of the award. The nominees for lead actress include Sally Hawkins, (The Shape of Water), Frances McDormand, (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri), Margot Robbie, (I, Tonya), Saoirse Ronan, (Lady
4 SEAN GANNON
G
spotlight Busy crowds form around precious gems as the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show displays its finest offerings. As one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tucson, the show features several vendors across town. Open to both buyers and the public, this show features famous stones such as the Logan Sapphire, the Star of Asia, and Arkansas Yellow Diamond Crystal. With different shows spread throughout Tucson, their focus shifts from fossils to rare gemstones depending on the show. Some shows are open to buyers only and require registration. Each show starts and ends at different dates; larger-scale show Crystals and Crystal Forms go from Feb. 8 to 11 at the Tucson Convention Center. Some shows that are available to the public have more of a family-oriented attitude, with events that focus on kids in attendance. The Tucson Gem and Mineral show features two annual events that cater to children, aiming to leave an impact and encourage curiosity in earth sciences. Drawing in people from around the world, many come to Tucson specifically for this show. Kelli Orzech, whose business is in crystals, made a trip from Seattle to visit the event. “This is my 8th or 9th year, I lost count. I’ll never miss one again if I can help it! As for my expectations, it’s really hard to describe. I just always know it’s going to be magical,” said Orzech, owner of
Instagram page KellEye. Welcoming the public to these shows has worked in Tucson’s favor, attracting all kinds of people. Even those who do not have a business in crystals are drawn to this show, including students with an interest in gemstones and minerals. “I’m going in a few weeks with a friend of mine, super excited about it. I have always been interested in crystals, I need a box for all of mine,” said Xandra Squier, a senior. While crystals and minerals can be expensive, many find that the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show offers a cheaper and higher quality alternative. This is a benefit of the show that reaches both public and businesses who are interested in wholesale events. “This is my second year going and it’s been amazing. There are hundreds of shows happening in the city so it can be overwhelming as a buyer because you want the best deals. I try to purchase a variety of stuff and get special orders from customers. Tucson gem shows are the best place to get the best deals right now,” said Shama Patel, owner of Florida-based company Jewels by Serendipity.
WITH CAMERA IN HAND, Matt Blackert has made a reputation for himself as a film maker.
4MAJA PEIRCE
Bird), Meryl Streep, (The Post). I want Robbie to win this title because I feel like her portrayal of Tonya Harding was so immersive and real I cannot see any of the nominees coming close. For best supporting actor, the nominees are Willem Dafoe, (The Florida Project), Woody Harrelson, (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri), Richard Jenkins, (The Shape of Water), Christopher Plummer, (All the Money in the World), Sam Rockwell, (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri). I am rooting for either Rockwell or Harrelson purely because I want Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri to win this category. Best supporting actress nominees are Mary J. Blige, (Mudbound), Allison Janney, (I, Tonya), Lesley Manville, (Phantom Thread), Laurie Metcalf, (Lady Bird) and Octavia Spencer, (The Shape of Water). I would love for Janney to win best supporting actress, because not only have I loved her prior works, but she was exceptional as the dark LaVona Harding. As for the best director category, the nominees include
Christopher Nolan (Dunkirk), Jordan Peele (Get Out), Greta Gerwig (Lady Bird), Paul Thomas Anderson (Phantom Thread), and Guillermo del Toro (The Shape of Water). Of these, I hope to see Peele win for Get Out, because of how surprising the movie was and I loved his view. One more category includes best visual effects, a personal favorite, which includes (Blade Runner 2049) John Nelson, Paul Lambert, Richard R. Hoover, Gerd Nefzer, (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2) Christopher Townsend, Guy Williams, Jonathan Fawkner, Dan Sudick, (Kong: Skull Island) Stephen Rosenbaum, Jeff White, Scott Benza, Mike Meinardus, (Star Wars: The Last Jedi) Ben Morris, Mike Mulholland, Chris Corbould, Neal Scanlan, and (War for the Planet of the Apes) Joe Letteri, Dan Lemmon, Daniel Barrett, Joel Whist. I undoubtedly want Blade Runner 2049 to win, not only because of my previous review, but also I truly loved the effects in that movie alone.
7
8 ■ FEBRUARY 9, 2018
necessary activities. “I joined the program because it is what I am interested in and I want to pursue a career in health and medicine,” said Hannah Schmitz, a senior and nursing student. The nursing program also offers real-time nursing experience through clinicals, where the students go to Lifecare of Scottsdale, a nursing home, to put their knowledge to use. Clinicals are required for students to attend, as they are a nationwide standard that was set by the Nursing Practice Act. Students must put in at least 75 hours of clinical practice in order to pass the course.There are five clinical meetings in the semester, which take place on Saturdays from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. At the end of the semester, there is a written test that covers all of the lecture material, lab techniques, and information obtained from the clinicals, which students must receive at least a 74 percent on to pass. “We get to practice all the skills that a nursing assistant is able to perform,” said Hollis Johnson, a senior and nursing student. The nursing program is a great prerequisite for any career in medicine, especially for those aspiring to be a physician’s assistants or nurse practitioner. The total cost for joining the program is approximately $1,000, which includes the down payment for the course, all the equipment and tools students have to purchase, safety vaccinations, and drug tests.
Griffin Goldstein
staff writer
O
TWO PERSPECTIVES Phoenix’s second women’s march took place Jan. 21, thus stirring up the debate about...
Modern Feminism
PRO- KATELYN REINHART
Banners call for change as women march through streets in protest. Celebrities wear all black in calm solidarity at the Golden Globes to speak out against sexual assault. Feminism has become one of the most emotionally charged issues of the decade. Many people claim that women’s problems have been solved in the United States; their movements for equality should have ended when they got the right to vote. However, the push for justice is still necessary. Globally, women make up around 3.6 billion of the population. Out of these, 15 million girls are expected to become child brides each year. Women in Saudi Arabia have just this year been granted the ability to drive. While women have acquired many undeniable victories, there is still much work to be done. For example, in 2005, an average of three women a day were killed by their spouses. How could anybody not be infuriated at the fact that women experience about 4.8 million intimate partner-related physical assaults and rapes every year? When the Justice Department estimates that one in five women will experience rape or attempted rape during their college years, the need for a modern feminist movement is clear. Another reason women continue to speak out is the continued inequality in politics. The fact remains that out of all 43 presidents in America, none have been female. Regardless of personal opinion, Hillary Clinton was the closest that women have ever been to the presidential title, which is why thousands of women took to the street after the election to register their protest. A popular misconception about the modern feminist movement is that it attacks men. However, the crazy few often speak louder than reasonable majority, especially in such emotionally charged debates. There are women who have held their hand over their heart, cried for equality among sexes, and then viciously attacked men for being men. Those women do not represent the movement of modern feminism. The goal is and has always been equality among men and women, and those who preach violence and blame against all men are defying the very philosophy they speak for. Another issue is that some perceive that the modern feminist movement excludes conservative women. This is seen in women’s marches, general media, and rallies. And indeed, the election of President Trump has been polarizing. Once President Trump was elected, people of all political parties were outspoken about their opinions, positive or negative. There is hope, however, with Ivanka Trump. As a businesswoman and advisor to the president, she is a public supporter of women's rights as well as a conser-
vative Republican, though she often remains tight-lipped about her own political views. This is a strong woman who has advocated for equality, and yes, she was raised by President Trump. Modern feminism is not perfect, especially with people speaking for the group as a whole that do not represent the movement. The movement is not filled with hate for anything but the fact that even now, there are women in the world who do not have basic rights.
Armed with stethoscopes and dressed in blue, high school students are pursuing their Certified Nursing Degrees through a Paradise Valley Community College program.
6
Maja Peirce discusses Matt Blackert’s passion for film and skating, as well as his tie between the two.
“The push for justice is still necessary.”
Nurses call the shots
OING into the medical field takes time, hard work, and dedication, with some students beginning to work towards their careers as early as high school. Maricopa County sponsors a certified nursing program in operation since as early as the 1980s. The program was originally run through 10 different sites, geographically, but now there are only eight community colleges in Maricopa County. Students at Cactus Shadows register for the course through Paradise Valley Community College, however classes are held on the Cactus Shadows campus. “This is the cheapest way to get an associate of science degree in nursing and become a registered nurse,” said Professor Rose, the nursing programs’ instructor. Nursing classes are held every day during fifth and sixth period in room 403. The class is made up of lectures, which are every Monday through Wednesday, but also contains skill labs every Thursday and Friday, which allow students to practice hands-on techniques and procedures, such as how to properly care for patients and use basic medical equipment. In the lab room, there is a realistic dummy that can breathe, blink, sustain a pulse, and perform many more human-like behaviors, which students use to practice on. Aside from using the mannequin, students also practice on each other, performing skills such as taking and recording blood pressure, pulse, and respiration rates. They learn how to properly feed, bathe, and dress the sick and elderly, along with other essential skills, like helping them out of bed, brushing their teeth, and other
With over 100 videos on his YouTube channel, and various connections with skaters and musical artists, Blackert has built a budding film career. He plans on following in the footsteps of Hunter and Buster, O’Shea, Jackson Casey, Eric Danescu, Brian Masterson, Cole Bennet, and Nicholas Jandora. “I mostly want to direct my focus onto doing something fresh and new that impacts another filmer to potentially incorporate into their style,” said Blackert. The desire to contribute to as many genres and styles of film drives Blackert’s aspirations and moves him to nurture long lasting relationships with clients and friends. “I chose Matt for several reasons, mainly because he’s a good friend before anything and I trust him completely so that helped a lot with the decision making. He’s also a very nice guy, very down to earth, loves doing what he does and you can just vibe off his energy on set. He brings a very creative mindset to the table and I find it extremely unique,” said Barlow. Blackert has fabricated a network and business of producing and directing skate films and now, music videos. These elements add up to create a successful visual artistry in his performance.
intrigue FEBRUARY 2018
february ALL KINDS of gems and rocks were available for purchase at the Tucson show. Among the most popular was opal.
Building a Career
Kickflips and cameras
ACADEMY AWARDS On March 4, Jimmy Kimmel will host the 90th annual Academy Awards, or Oscars. The nominees were announced on Jan. 3.
ABIGAIL NOSAN, a sophomore
Brook Bowman
The Tucson Gem and Mineral Show has officially begun, bringing in people from all over the world. Katelyn Reinhart recounts the details of the event.
spotlight
Branching Out
Since skate videos are typically centered around the tricks and less on the edits and cuts made in the footage, Blackert enjoyed the idea of shooting music videos. It was a more creative way for him to develop his style in the editing room. “Matt is the most understanding person ever. I could tell him a general idea of what I want and he would nail it better than I envisioned. The vision for the Revenge video, which is the project we most recently worked on, was all about trippy visuals. I knew his editing skills were top notch so I wanted to use that to my advantage for the project,” said Aaron Barlow, also known as Terner, a local rapper to the Phoenix area.
“I’m currently listening to Migos’ new album. My favorite artist would be Oh Wonder; I like a lot of different music, but I was drawn to Oh Wonder because their sound is so unique,”
8
Minerals rock Tucson
tear she
HUMANS OF CACTUS SHADOWS
CON-LAUREN HAGGAR
Feminism, a term used by many, but understoo streets and cheer vulgar sayings, all in the name However, if you are a pro-life woman, count yours you unfit. Likewise, utter the word Trump, and you ing your mind. Feminists act under a platform of respecting everything in between, but all of that is a lie. M exclusionary culture, filled with hate instead of lov are some of the most discriminatory our nation ha Let's rewind a bit, and head back to Jan. 21, one Trump. Women took to the streets in cities all phrases, threatening the President, and most of all of the phrases so tasteless, they would be inapprop women who support Trump, this display was alien Feminists, instead of focusing on legitimate issue East, spend too much time focusing on Presiden indeed won against a woman in the election, and tion of feminism has nothing to do with him. Spe ment to be truly feminist, there should be a place f Another issue that taints the current feminis ket hatred of men. As much as the modern day f “equality,” they often choose to attack men, and des take advantage of women, get paid more, and sex. This stereotype is where feminists not o where they lose half of the population’s sup To clarify, nothing is wrong with sprea about, but where it does turn wrong is women only in fact empowers some. In supporters, they should be reachin those of all backgrounds and beliefs, because the definition of feminism is the advocacy of
“Mod hav excl
wome the se The wome wome more inclus at this goal. Yes, feminism should but it should be done with taste, and ele our children to witness. It should be inclusive of a and it should have nothing to do with politics an should need to be a feminist, is to be a woman.
How relevant is the feminist movement in today’s NATHAN OLARI, JUNIOR
WSARA WINDOM FEBRUARY 2018 intrigue
“Women get $0.77 per $1 that a man makes... it’s harder for them to get higher positions in companies and how women are treated differently, but I also believe that men and women are both of equal opportunity.”
4BROOK BOWMAN
COLIN SALIBA, JUNIOR “I think the movement has changed for the worse since the sixties. It’s started to just target men instead of figure out what’s wrong.”
SARA PAU SOPHOMO
“I’ve noticed that I’m tre differently from men in a l places, like in the classr or at home with my bro He’s allowed to do m things because just be guy means a lot of situa wouldn’t be dangerous for like they would for