Maddie Howard-Spotlight Editor 2016

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Self Evaluation This semester, I believe that I worked pretty well with other editors and the staffers. I feel like all of the editors had a good system of communication this semester. Working with the new staffers was a little challenging at first. The new staffers had to learn the ropes of the newspaper routines. Towards the end of the semester, the new staffers seem to have gotten the hang the deadlines and the journalism style in writing and this made it easier to work with them. Being an editor for the first time was a little stressful at first. I realized that I am now a person that people came to for help and other kinds of questions regarding my page. This was a little overwhelming at first. I feel like I am a quiet person and didn’t express my leadership as well as I should have, However, I think that I still made sure that everything got done for my page. Also, I am not a pushy type of leader which isn’t a bad thing, but sometimes I had to be a little pushy in some cases to get things done. Next semester, I’m going to try to be more out there in the leadership department. Whether if it’s talking to a writer for my page or at editor meetings I want to be a little more out there. When producing the newspaper, I learned a lot about the rules of InDesign and newspaper guidelines. I am still learning about more was to make my spread more intriguing and pretty. By next semester, I hope that I will be using all of the tips and tricks that I learned and put them to good use in my upcoming spreads. Deadlines are what makes helps us to make sure our paper is ready and in tip top shape before it goes to print. As an editor, I have learned to definitely not wait until the last minute to start my spread. Also, I have learned to make sure the staffers who are writing for my page, keep up with the deadlines for their articles and pictures. If you don’t stay on the writers, some things won’t get done and there might be a hole on the spread. I’m going to stay on top of my page and make sure the writers for my page get their stuff done next semester. I have learned that the journalism ethics tell us right from wrong. Also, with the good practice of these ethics, they can avoid censorship. It is very important not to plagiarize someone else’s work. The result of this could be the student getting kicked out of the class, suspended, or the original writer could sue, and that could be the end to the newspaper. A newspaper is all about telling the truth, it is not a gossip magazine. We are here to give the people the truth about what is going on in the community as well as different situations and events. I would do a lot to make sure that the paper comes out to be the best that it can be. I want to see everyone excited to see the paper coming out. Also, I feel like I could have done more to make the paper better. When there was an article or picture that nobody wanted to do, I should have volunteered to do them. Next semester, I will do my best to get more involved with helping everyone out if they need something for their pages.

The main hardship that I faced was getting used to an editor position. Getting used to helping my writers edit their stories and getting used to InDesign were the two main challenges. As the semester progressed, I have gotten used to being an editor, I have sort of put together a routine as each issue approached, I found that the editor position has gotten much easier. In order to stay stress free in this position next semester, I will continue with my routine and time management. This semester has been so much fun overall being an editor for the first time and I am super excited to see what next semester has in store.

Reflection 1 From this semester, I really enjoyed the December issue spread. This spread was a little bit difficult to complete. It was difficult because the event calendar needed work at the last minute, the Nutcracker article had to be rewritten, and the Tuna Christmas review wasn’t able to be written until Production Day. from the beginning, the spread was a mess. I had to play around with the position of the stories and pictures to make things all fit. It was also tricky trying to get everything to not look crowded. I was going to take out the Christmas Playlist, but I couldn’t because it was designed so good and it’s the holidays. As production Day progressed, I was starting to feel really confident about the spread. The final product was so much better than I expected. The Humans of Cactus Shadows section was funny, the event calendar turned out awesome, and the stories were filled with great information. Overall, I was pretty excited about how this spread turned out.

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September Tear Sheets SPOTLIGHT

Suicide Squad : too much hype

LOCAL BAND AJJ ALBUM WORTH THE WAIT

By SARA WINDOM g style editor

AJJ, a folk-punk band from Phoenix, Arizona, just released their highly anticipated eighth studio album, The Bible 2, on August 19. To build up the hype around it, they held two shows at Rebel Lounge and an acoustic preview at a Zia Records in Mesa two days prior to the date.

AJJ formed in 2004 under their previous name Andrew Jackson Jihad, formed by singer/guitarist Sean Bonnette, bassist Ben Gallaty and drummer Justin James White.

Since then, White has left, and members Preston Bryant and Mark Glick have been added.

The CD as a whole sounded incredible, each track’s placement was so well done it felt like I had just read Bonnette’s memoir.

Up first, was “Cody’s Theme”, an upbeat song about a young boy constantly in trouble with parents and teachers. The track was short and sweet, only lasting two minutes, and was paired with humorous lyrics and a catchy hook. Well done, AJJ. Unfortunately, the next few songs didn’t work so well. One of AJJ’s best qualities,

at least in this album, is that they can add a lot of layers without it being a chaotic mess. However, “Golden Eagle” and “Junkie Church” were exceptions.

“Golden Eagle” wasn’t that bad starting out, but as the song progressed, it got worse and worse. Even though it was only two minutes long, I found it hard to sit this one through.

The same went for “Junkie Church”, except I found it even more dreadful than the first.

It didn’t help that these songs were back to back.

“The CD as a whole sounded incredible, each track’s placement was so well done it felt like I had just read Bonnette’s memoir.”

After several upbeat tracks, I encountered my favorite song on the CD. “No More Shame, No More Fear, No More Dread”, was the full title, and lucky for me, it was one of the longer songs on the album, approximately four minutes. It was a really soft, emotional song, almost entirely done on piano.

AJJ is known for their usually funny, overthe-top, ironic lyrics, but this song strayed from the norm. There were no silly lyrics, no crazy layers, no strange structure, just a slowed down song perfectly placed in the

New to the faculty this year...

Department of the Interior Federal Government for 10 years. Been teaching since 2002. Fun Fact: “I used to have an Afro!”

Has been teaching for 25 years. She is teaching English.

She is surprised about how great the students behavior here. Fun Fact: “I love teaching the 9th grade.”

CUNNANE 4 LOGAN LARKIN 10 ■ SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

COX

Has been teaching for 6 years. Teaches Math. He is surprised at how helpful everyone is. Fun Fact: “I rode my bike from the Grand Canyon to Mexico.”

DICK

Has only been teaching for 3 years. Teaches bans, choir, guitar, and Jazz band.

Surprised about school pride and spirit. Fun Fact: Moved form New York 2 years ago.

BRADY

middle.

Something I really enjoyed throughout the

“The CD as a whole sounded incredible, each track’s placement was so well done it felt like I had just read Bonnette’s memoir.”

Sara Windom

entire record, was the songs were grainy and gritty, in a really cool way. I felt like I was listening to a local’s demo, like nobody knew who AJJ was, it felt like a secret only told to me. It sounded like real people just trying to make music rather than over produced garbage.

The last three songs of the short, 30 minute CD were all very different from each other.

“Terrifyer” was eerie and intriguing, it’s hard to go wrong with a good riff paired with ominous lyrics.

Been teaching for 6 years.

Taught Teaches Geometry and at Desert Mountain he is a Special Education/ High School for 2 years.

Resource Teacher. He was Teaches AP Government surprised by the school spirit and Government. He is happy and how helpful everyone is. with the great community of the Fun Fact: “ I have a good school. Fun Fact: “I am a Tucson sized shoe collection.” native.”

Taught World History and English at Horseshoe Trails for ten years. Dean of Students this year. Surprised at the warm welcome from the students. Fun Fact: “My last name means beautiful hair.”

PETTINATO

CARPENTER

By SEAN GANNON § staff writer

The much anticipated comic book movie Suicide Squad may have reeled in over $400 million in the box office, but it was actually severely disappointing.

This started out as a fantastic idea and who better to direct DC’s masterpiece than David Ayer, who also directed Fury and End of Watch.

Margot Robbie did an outstanding job of playing the maniac that is Harley Quinn.

Will Smith and Jared Leto both played their characters very well, but the one weak link was Cara Delevingne. Delevingne is not an actress, she is a model, so she should never have been cast for the role of Enchantress.

Unfortunately, Ayer’s newest film ended up letting audiences down everywhere.

While there was so much potential for this film to be great, Ayer ruined it with several flaws.

The idea behind creating the Suicide Squad was to assemble a group of the worst villains in the DC Comics universe and take on an even worse villain. These villains are prisoners serving several life sentences so they will do anything in their power to shorten their time spent in jail.

“Small Red Boy,” and “When I’m a Dead Boy” were the last two. One was the worst song, the other one of the best.

“Small Red Boy” didn’t seem to have anything going right in it. The music was strange and hard to follow, it felt completely unorganized. And, with lyrics like, “His tongue became a staircase, his uvula the knocker,” I felt uncomfortable the entire time. This five minute long song was a nightmare, and I almost turned it off altogether.

“When I’m a Dead Boy,” however, was able to restore my love for AJJ. It was the perfect closer. The minute long song had me begging for more, and was a great way to end the album. I give the album 4 out of 5 stars.

While some of the songs were too strange and creepy for me, that’s just how AJJ is, and that’s a part of why I love them. “No More Shame,” “Cody’s Theme,” and several other songs were in my head weeks after, and it is clear, AJJ has succeeded once again.

The Bible 2, is available for purchase on all platforms and for streaming on Spotify, or if you’re super impatient and need your hands on a copy right now, most Zia Record stores have them in stock.

CENCER

Has been teaching for 3 years.

Teaches Math at the school.

He is surprised about how big the campus is.

NAQVI

Used to work at Fortune 500 Company. This is his first year as a classroom Fun teacher.

Fact: “I played professional volleybeach ball.”

DERAFFAELE

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

Has been teaching Chinese for 2 years.

She was surprised about the students.

WANG

Has been teaching for 7 years. Teaches French at the school. Fun Fact: “I lived in France for 2 years.”

HENDERSON

Ayer focused on making this movie as action-packed as possible and seemingly forgot about the storytelling aspect of his film. There were too many things happening at one time making it extremely difficult to focus on one specific event at a time.

Character development was basically nonexistent to the point that audiences felt that the characters had not changed at all throughout the course of the movie and knew almost nothing about certain characters.

While the film was well acted and well produced, it lacked one, solid, easy-to-follow plot. There were too many subplots that just felt a bit unnecessary to the main theme.

Another issue was the extremely repetitive setting. The movie takes place in a gargantuan city, but it felt very confined as if they had only filmed it on one set.

Action scenes, the abuse of slow motion, and the diverse sound track saved the movie from entirely crashing and burning. There were plenty of moments where action wasn’t necessary, but what is a good superhero movie without a fight scene or ten?

been Has teaching Math for 17 years.

She was surprised that she didn’t have a smartboard. Fun Fact:”I have two kids, they’re nuts.”

ROBERSON

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

Has teachbeen ing for 20 years.

Health/ Teaches Fam at the school.

Fun Fact: “I love The Walking Dead.”

LARKIN

Has been teaching for 21 years. She teaches Science. Was surprised at how polite the students are. Fun Fact: I was a Forensic Scientist.”

ANDERSON

SPOTLIGHT SEPTEMBER EVENTS

September 16

Full Moon Hike to the Old Clay Mine

This event will take place at 7 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. This guided hike will take its participants through the trails of Cave Creek and up to the old Clay mine to experience some of the old west part of this town. It is important that each hiker bring a bottle of water, a flashlight, and a camera.

September 24

Slide the City

This event travels around the United States to give people a chance to slide a 1000 feet long water slide that stretches across their city. This event will have many different choices of food and music that is suited for all ages. This event will be coming to Fountain View on September 24 and to be able to ride the slide, each participant must bring an inflatable tube

September 16-25

Fall Arizona Restaurant Week

For the food lovers of Phoenix, this event will have all kinds of different food for those with different cravings. There will be over 200 restaurants attending and a few restaurants that will be making an appearance are Arrowhead Grill, High Tide Seafood, and Rusconi’s American Kitchen.

The price for a three course meal is around $33 a person or $44 a person.

September 23-25

Slide Across America

This is the world’s biggest inflatable water park with over 40 different inflatable water for everyone to enjoy. This is a great way to enjoy summer for one last time. Not only does this event consist of water slide, but it also has different kinds of food and music to fit anyone’s preference.

Slide Across America is located at the Salt River Frields and goes in the mornings of Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. and evening sessions on Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m.

September 24

Fiesta Peoria

Experience the incredible history and heritage of the Hispanic lifestyle of Latin American and Mexico. This function is going to be hosting plenty of live music and food coming from the Hispanic heritage. There will be different vendors, arts and crafts, and carnival rides for the kids.

This event will be held at the Peoria Sports Complex at 2 p.m. until 10:30 p.m.

Has been teaching for 30 years.

He teaches English.

Fun Fact: “I raise and show Arabian horses.”

SAVIDGE

He teaches Economics.

Fact: Fun went “I Robert to Kennedy’s daughter’s wedding.”

WALKER

Taught for 5 years.

Teaches English 9/10.

Fun Fact: “I love college football!

DUBOSE

He has been teaching for 5 years. He teaches Business, Yearbook, and coaches football.

Fun Fact: “I love Pugs!”

THOMPSON

Been teaching for 19 years.

Teaches P.E. Fun Fact: “I run marathons without training for them.”

KAIRIE

SEPTEMBER 16, 2016 ■ 11

October Tear Sheets

ArizonA’s Got TalenT

SPOTLIGHT

I See Reality worth the read

By Dominic Davies g staff writer

“The FirsT occasion” is one of senior Logan Larkin’s favorite paintings that he has created. His work has been displayed at Pita Jungles around the valley. Larkin hopes to study art on the East Coast next year.

B

4Logan Larkin

By Lauren Haggar g news editior

ristles on the paint brush whir across the

newly stretched canvas as artist Logan Larkin, senior, adds splashes of acrylic color and design to a blank canvas. Larkin has been pursuing the love of art ever since he was young.

“I started taking it seriously around eighth grade, when I really started trying to find purpose in my art,” said Larkin.

“I like the piece Larkin credits his art teachers Dara because it is kind Parsons, Luwin Lazo and Deborah Wales, of boundary-less, for giving him a springboard for his learning. Presently, Larkin pulls inspiration and there is a lot of from artists such as Takashi Murakami undeveloped structure and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Basquiat is well in it. In addition, it known for his pieces focused on counter culture, and Murakami primarily concenwas the largest piece trates on ‘superflat’ style. These influences I have done yet. It is help him to find new styles of art.

“Murakami inspires me to develop art intimidating starting a that is unique to my own thriving mind piece that big,” and make art in the environment that inspires me most: myself,” said Larkin.

Logan Larkin speaking Larkin relates to these artists on many of his art different levels, but especially enjoys Basquiat’s use of color and Murakami’s flat style of art.

“You can tell that he draws a lot of inspiration from their [Murakami and Basquiat] works, he isn't afraid to take inspiration from them,” said Mia Gilling, a junior who has worked with Larkin on the literary magazine and newspaper Larkin attended New York University this past summer.

The program is highly exclusive, only accepting 36 appli12 ■ OctOber 14, 2016

cants out of 1,000 nationwide.

“When Logan sent me the email [about his acceptance into the program], I instantly started crying, I was so excited for him,” said Lori Kurtz-Larkin, Larkin’s mother, who teaches Health.

In order to be considered, applicants had to submit 10-15 of their personal art pieces, and a personal statement. While there, Larkin took painting, aesthetic, and drawing courses, and visited art galleries, museums, and artists’ studios.

“The program was really cool. It consisted of three weeks being in the city, being immersed with other artists my age, and learning from art professionals and professors who work at NYU,” said Larkin.

Larkin’s work was recently on display at various Pita Jungle locations throughout the valley.

“It is amazing to see his art everywhere, especially the first show. When we were walking around the restaurant, all I could think was every one of these paintings is my son’s, and he has done so much and his body of work is so diverse.

When you see these painting hanging on these huge walls, it is crazy cool,” said Kurtz-Larkin.

Despite the many pieces Larkin creates, one in particular stands out to him that he is exceptionally proud of. The piece is entitled ‘First Occasion, and features primary colors, and an abstract feel.

“I like the piece because it is kind of boundary-less, and there is a lot of undeveloped structure in it. In addition, it was the largest piece I have done yet. It is intimidating starting a piece that big,” said Larkin.

Larkin hopes to attend either New York University, Parsons or Pratt University, where he will pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in studio art painting. As for after college, Larkin dreams of being a world-renowned artist by the time he is 25.

I See Reality is a unique collection of twelve short stories using simple text and comics to depict what it is like being a teen.

I See Reality, edited by Grace Kendall, covers many topics such as addiction, sexuality and speculating a breakup. 12 authors contribute their own fiction short story to create an informative novel on what teenagers go through.

All 12 stories deal with issues teens face in different ways and perspectives, but there were three that stood out.

The first short story, Three Imaginary Conversations with You, is a brilliant way to start off the book. The reader is walked through Jessa’s thoughts as she plays out three separate scenarios in her head about how she will break up with her controlling and manipulative boyfriend.

Hush, was about a mother who was extremely protective and paranoid about germs with her daughter. This was one of the sadder stories as the main character felt bad for her mother and would sneak outside so she would not find out. The ending complimented the story and seemed to finish off the plot.

The Night of the Living Creeper was one of the worse stories.

Throughout the whole story, it was told from the pointless perspective of Skittles the cat. The cat was out at a Halloween and described the events done by the people that was hard to follow. This was one of two short stories that used comics, but they didn’t make this story any better.

Overall, the book did a good job of getting into the mind of young adults. Many of these short stories were relatable and captured the feeling of what life is like in high school while showing this through different types of people with different views. Due to the stories being so short, stories such as The Mistake seemed to move very fast and Coffee Chameleon was difficult to understand.

This book receives a four-star rating. Stories like Hush and The Good Brother were spectacular, but other stories such as The Night of the Living Creeper and Gone From this Place did not do the book justice and left the reader wanting more. tHe cActUS SHADOWS PreSS

SPOTLIGHT

Battle of the Bands

By Emma RussEllog

g

staff writer

Every year, local singers and bands participate in Alice Cooper’s Proof is in the Pudding competition. During the next several weeks, a couple of bands from Cactus Shadows will be preforming,.

Performing at alice cooPer’s Proof is in the Pudding comPetition, Alexis Brown, a junior,

gives the crowd a solo concert.

4Sara windom

The competition is over nine weeks starting September 27th, and ending November 18th. Each week there is a different theme that the participants have to perform, such as a cover, Christmas song, and an original.

Some famous singers have won this competition before, such as Jordan Sparks and Destinee Quinn.

The prizes are not only money and scholarships, but also chances to perform in local festivals and opportunities to practice with famous musicians.

Sara Windom, a junior, is the singer and guitarist in the band Sunlaand.

This is the first time Sunland will be performing in the Battle of the Bands, but not Windom’s first time.

“Last year, I participated as a soloist and thought I did really good, but I didn’t make it past the first round. The other two years I did it, I made it to the semi-finals. So, I feel pretty confident, but I have not seen the other bands,” said Windom.

There is a variety of genres that come out to play, not just rock and roll.

“Sunlaand is kind of punk, but not really scary. I’d say skate-punkish,” said Windom.

Junior, Katelyn Reinhart’s band, Homestretch, is more in the country genre, but trying to get more into rock.

“We have been talking about getting together for about a year, but nothing really ever worked out. We ended up having our first practice the same day as the audition,” said Reinhart.

Since there are a large number of bands coming out to perform, there is a lot of anticipation.

“Everyone that is there is really good, so it will be really cool to see how everyone ends up. I hope we do really good,” said Reinhart.

Many of these students and people playing in this competition have a special love for music. Jacob Bombaci, a history teacher, who is a contract bass guitarist, and also shares this love for music, is able to relate to the student musicians.

“You have to practice a lot, and play music because you love it, not just to be on stage or to have something to do. Music has to be a part of who you are, if you want to be good at it. You have to devote a lot of time to practice,” said Bombaci.

AUTUMN PLAYLIST

Woodland

The Paper kites

Sweetheart, What Have You Done To Us

keaton Henson

Morning Blue Bucket of Gold

Beck

Sufjan Stevens

It’s hard to get around the wind

Alex Turner

The Wolves and the Ravens

Rogue valley

I Remember it Now Angela Autumn Tree Blood Bank

fossil collective

The lumineers Milo Greene Bon Iver

Umia gilling,

14 ■ OctOber 14, 2016

tHe cActUS SHADOWS PreSS

SPOTLIGHT

Kevin Brady marches into the nest Bringing BacK the Band Bang! Bam! Crash! This year, sTudenTs and faCulTy

Record Stores: back in action?

4SArA windom

By Sara windom g style editor

In an attempt to go back to an era almost forgotten about, record stores are on the rise again.

“I have had records all my life, my first records were little 45s, I still have them,” said Doni Nasr, a spanish teacher.

Nasr has maintained her record collection for most of her life. Little did she know collecting would start trending again.

Since the second coming of vinyl, record shops have been popping up just about anywhere, and the younger generation is taking notice.

Kate Rosenbaum, a junior, record shops because, “records have a lot of character to them. I feel like it’s kind of pure music.”

30 record stores in arizona

According to Yelp, there are over 30 record stores in Arizona, some of the best rated including Stinkweeds, the Record Room and Zia Record Exchange, all located in Phoenix.

“I like Zia Records best. I like brand new records a lot, but I mainly buy used ones because… I’m very cheap, also broke,” said Rosenbaum.

Zia is a chain vinyl shop that sells all things music, whether it's new or used. They even buy used CDs, tapes, records, band t-shirts, or any other memorabilia from its customers. Customers can then earn cash or in-store credit towards their next purchase.

Zia is also known to hold exclusive in-store signings and acoustic shows with big acts around the valley, one of their most recent ones being Atmosphere on September 27.

“My favorite store is Stinkweeds,” said Alex Hummel, a senior, “It’s a really cool place with even cooler people and I like the location of it.”

Stinkweeds is an independently owned record store located in Phoenix. This music hotspot sells tickets to concerts around the valley. This allows concert goers to buy tickets without all of the additional fees and upcharges websites dish out, with no worry of the concert selling out at the door. When they are not selling tickets, they have new and used records, CDs, tapes, and tees for sale. They even offer the occasional free sticker or button.

Vinyl has better sound

“I typically enjoy listening to vinyl more than any other media of music because the experience of listening to records is very different,” said Hummel.

When starting a record collection, Rosenbaum suggests gathering slowly, rather than going to one shop and buying everything in it.

There does not have to be one specific genre of music featured either, “My record collection is kind of a mixture of bands that are new,” said Rosenbaum, “and then I have a lot of records that are kind of old from the 50s and 60s that my grandparents gave me.”

Hummel, however takes a different route, “for first time record buyers, I would say that it’s great to buy an album that you know you love.”

Or, Hummel advises for the more adventurous type, “then it’s fun to shake it up and blindly buy an album that seems interesting.”

Hummel encourages newbie record consumers to collect, but they must be prepared to spend more money to buy and maintain their vinyl.

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

at Cactus Shadows are once again treated to the sound of the marching band practicing before school. Missing for several years due to a lack of enrollment, new band instructor Kevin Brady hopes to continue the marching band tradition.

“He’s not familiar with every instrument in the band but he’s trying his hardest to help everyone to become better,” said Orion Lauer, drummer, “Last year we didn’t participate in many events, there wasn’t much exposure for us, and [Brady] is pushing for us to be more involved with the school.”

Previously, Brady was the Sonoran Trails middle school band instructor.

He transferred to Cactus Shadows this fall, and has already made progress with the marching band. Brady still continues to work at Sonoran Trails in the afternoon.

“We’ve been trying to start by spending some time in the stands this year.

We will be learning basic formation this year which I’ve taken from my own experience, my mentors, and sources nearby,” said Brady.

Over the past ten years, the band has ranged from as many as 100 performers to as little as 16. More recently, however, the band disappeared completely, no longer marching in the morning before school or playing at football games.

“It’s going to be more like a pep band, because we don’t have enough people to march. But I’m super excited to play at games again. I have confidence that Mr. Brady is going to make the marching band great again, and it’s nice to have a fresh perspective and attitude in the band room,” said Gaby Arias, clarinet player.

“I have confidence that Mr. Brady is going to make the marching band great again, and it’s nice to have a fresh perspective and attitude in the band room,” Gaby Arias, a junior

Morning practices

Members of this year’s band are busy preparing for performances, which means practicing each morning before school.

“We’re learning songs that we’re going to play during the games currently, so marching music. We’re keeping the originals like the school song and Go Big Blue, but we’re also adding in a few extras that the audience can participate in as well.

But for now, it’s a surprise,” said Arias.

Typically, high school marching bands consist of a drum major, leading the formation, performers, with a minimum of six instrument players, and a pit crew of sideline percussion instruments.

“Currently, we have 15 performers and three twirlers. We have two flutes, two clarinets, one alto saxophone, two tenor saxophones, one trumpet, two trombones, and four percussions. This year we do not have an assigned student drum major,” said Brady.

Absent from last year’s homecoming parade, this year, the band will be performing at multiple parades.

“We’re planning on playing at all the home games for football, and some games for basketball as well. Also, we’re going to be playing in the homecoming parade, and maybe the Christmas parade. Lastly, we have a fall, winter, and spring concert to perform at, along with the annual CCUSD band showcase, where all the bands in the district play in the blue gym,” said Arias.

Each day at 6 a.m, band students meet in the band room for zero hour, and disperse to the track and fields to practice straight lining and parade formation.

“There’s nothing more high school than the sound of a marching band,” said Scott LaVigne, an English teacher. “I really missed hearing them when I got to work in the morning, and I’m glad they are back.”

Brady may have his work cut out for him, but there is no question that students are happy to be involved in the marching band and are willing to work hard to make it a success.

“My favorite part about band is playing. I love it when everyone just knows their part and I can hear everyone’s harmonies and countermelodies come together like puzzle pieces to a jigsaw puzzle we’ve been working at together,” said Arias. “It’s just so fun. Honestly, just a fantastic way to start my day every morning.”

leading the band during a morning practice, Kevin Brady has taken on the rebuilding of the marching band.

4logAn lArKin

UAlex lAggren, with additional reporting by KAtie Butler OCTObER 14, 2016 ■ 13

November Tear sheets

SPOTLIGHT

Humans of Cactus Shadows

“I have been captain on the swim team and also participating in Peter and the Starcatcher. I really enjot it. I really enjoy being busy, but I really do need to take a break to eat and sleep sometimes.”

KAMERON MOORE, senior

4 LOGAN LARKIN

“I moved in Februrary from Peru.

It was different to move because Peru is a smaller country. I was really excited to move here. I have family in Florida, so we would visit there a lot. My family and I have also been to New York, Tennessee, California, but not Arizona. I like to act, I used to be on the improv team at my old school.”

FERNANDA BRIGNETI, junior

4 LOGAN LARKIN

“I play hockey, but I don’t play for the school. Also, I enjoy long walks on the beach and the warm sunlight, specifically Venice, Italy. I have this tendency to procrastinate, but I am starting to grip on it and starting to become more efficient. I do not enjoy reading, I feel reading gives me pain, I do not like pain.”

TOMMY ROBERTS, freshman

4 LOGAN LARKIN 14 ■ NOVEMBER 14, 2016

UKATIE BUTLER

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

SPOTLIGHT NIKO ROSE has put out his music onto different platforms including soundcloud and spotify. He wanted to release it earlier because he realized that life is too short to wait any longer. 4 LOGAN LARKIN

NIKO ROSE: MUSICIAN, ARTIST, INSPIRATION

M

By ZOIE LAMBESIS g staff writer

USIC artist, Niko Rose, has

many talents, from playing multiple instruments to producing his own music, Rose uploads it for thousands to listen to online. He had always known he wanted to create music one day, but he did not know he would be putting out music this soon.

“I was just going to start making music for fun and for my own ears at first, but my brothers really wanted me to start putting my stuff out early,” said Rose.

NIKO BEGAN EARLY

Rose grew up playing music with his brothers since he was a little kid. All of his brothers are into music, they make it easy for Niko to ask for help when it comes to his projects.

Other than Rose’s brothers, some of his influences, when it comes to songwriting and creating music, are Chance the Rapper, Kendrick Lamar, Frank Ocean and D’angelo.

Niko realized, after he had gotten out of the hospital for a gallbladder surgery, that he wanted to release his music. His songs are mainly about life itself and that life is not guaranteed everyday.

“I have always had an urgency to work on music, and once I got out of the hospital, I decided to put my songs up on Soundcloud because I realized life is too short to wait to do something you are passionate about,” said Rose.

Rose, at first, did not care what people thought about his music. It only mattered to

him if he liked it or not. However, he did start to wonder why people did not like it and he wanted to hear more about what they had to say about his music.

“I like it, I think that his music is hip and it’s cute,” said Jake Fazio, a junior.

LEARNING PIANO

Being able to play instruments is a big factor into creating his music. Rose can play the guitar, he uses an Ibanez RG3 and he is also learning how to play the piano. He uses Logic Pro X to record his voice for his songs to upload them online. His songs are available on Soundcloud, Spotify, and iTunes.

“It is extremely impressive that a kid his age is able to make music and on top of that, figure out all the tech stuff to put it up online,” said,Teresa Hall, a teacher..

Rose finds it hard producing his own music without the right equipment. It is one of those things that takes awhile to get good at.

However, one thing that Rose excels at is his ability of knowing which cadence and delivery to use when singing.

When it came to classifying Rose’s music, he did not have a solid answer. He feels that his type of music does not sound like many other artist out in the industry right now.

“I don't really know how to define the music I make. It really is a combination of a lot of things, neo-soul, hip hop, lo fi, I like to let the listener define it,” said Rose.

It is only within a matter of minutes that Rose's music becomes known by many. With the talent he has, his goals and dreams can be achieved easily.

Brady takes over choir as they prepare for winter concert

By HALLIE WOOLDRIDGE g staff writer

In order to get prepared for upcoming concerts and other events, the Cactus Shadows choir meets daily during second period.

During these meeting, student members and choir teacher, Kevin Brady, rehearse their featured songs with techniques, such as repetition.

“First, we warm up our voices with about five vocal warm ups, then we go through each song that we have set for our concert to fix any spots in the songs that need it. We do this everyday and we

become better,” said Bree Glidden, a freshman choir member.

On Thursday, November 3, choir is hosting their first concert of the year in the lecture hall. Then later in the semester, choir will be holding their annual winter concert December 13, at 7:00 p.m. in the lecture hall. singing solo To audition for solos in any concerts, choir members must go in front of the class and sing the portion of the song that they want for Kevin Brady, choir teacher, and then he chooses who he believes would best fit the solo.

“My favorite part of choir is auditioning for solos, even though it can be nerve wracking,” Taylor Frye, a junior choir member.

In order to pick the best fit for the feature of a solo performance, Brady has a few key things that he looks for when choosing students to get a certain solo.

“We have auditions where students must stand up in front of the class and perform. I base my decision on how well they kept the tune, what their tones sounded like, and who put on the best performance,” said Brady.

The student’s rhythm and pro-

nunciation all have to be the exact same in order for the choir to function properly without error during their concerts.

“Once we have parts and rhythms down, we start to focus on vowels and different elements,” said Brady.

Not only is the sound and the tune of the choir important, but the timing of the students’ breathing is also an important role in the performance.

“We work on all of the expressive elements. Even when we breath, it has to be in synch because it has a big impact on our performance,”

said Brady.

Students not only improve on their singing skills but they get to know each other and become closer as friends.

“This is my first year at Cactus Shadows, but my favorite memory from choir would honestly be meeting all the interesting people there. Everyone in choir is so different and unique,” said Glidden.

With choir working as such a consecutive unit, most of the students have become close friends and have learned different techniques from one another.

KEVIN BRADY helps the choir students prepare for upcoming concerts in the lecture hall, such as the choir’s upcoming winter concert.

4 LOGAN LARKIN

SPOTLIGHT

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

NOVEMBER 14, 2016 ■ 15

SUGAR AND SPICE AND EVERYTHING NICE ON ‘AMERICA’S GOT TALENT’

By GRACE HAYCRAFT-MCKEE g staff writer

Sugar and Spice has been in the spotlight for their impressive dancing and videos they have done for Youtube. Putting into perspective, these group of girls were on America’s Got Talent and received a “yes” from Howard Stern, Mel B, and Heidi Klum, sending them to the next round.

“It was very scary, very terrifying, but super fun and “They were just the best experience of my talking about life. My heart was racing how we can be the entire time,” said Sarah Kinert, a sophomore and super girly when member of Sugar and Spice. we’re dancing Since America’s Got or super hard Talent, the group has received more publicity. hitting and “From America’s Got strong, so Sugar Talent we started doing Youtube videos with the and Spice were group, so it was mostly like opposites.” based from America’s Got Talent when we started getSarah Kinert who performed ting noticed,” said Kinert. with Sugar and Kinert, also known as Vi Spice on “America is one of the members of the Got Talent” dance crew. Each of the girls got a nickname resembling the sugar and spice theme.

SUGAR AND SPICE performing on The group name itself was actually created America’s Got Talent where they received a ‘yes’ from all three judges. With the by their managers. success from the show, the girls have “They were just talking about how we can received many opportunities as a group be super girly when we’re dancing or super and individually, including dancing in hard hitting and strong, so Sugar and Spice music videos. were like opposites,” said Kinert.

Their choreographers mainly come up with the routines for their dances.

“They’re really good dancers. If you watch “Our choreographer, Brian Friedman, will the group dance you’d wish you could dance come up with the choreography most of the as good as them. They’re good at all styles, if time but we can have some input or if there’s you see them individually at classes they’re any improv sections we can just do whatever amazing,” said Erica Honing, a sophomore. we want.”

Kinert’s dance crew have gained many One of Kinert’s good friends, who also is a new opportunities as a group and individudancer, heard about the crew from her and ally as well. For example, one of the memthought they were amazing. bers actually danced in a music video.

SARAH KINERT

is a member of the dance group, Sugar and Spice.

4 LOGAN LARKIN

“This girl Taylor Knight was in Justin Bieber’s music video,” said Honing.

The dancers in the group have received numerous experiences to dance in front of a big crowd.

“The majority of us danced with Janet Jackson for her world tour when she came to our city and one of the girls has been on Ellen,” said Kinert.

Compared to other dancers, according to Haley Vago, one of the dance teachers, they are really impressive for their age.

“The group has definitely a wide range of ages, and I usually don’t see skills like that in performances unless they’re in their twenties, maybe even closer to their thirties. I think for their age they are really, really talented” said Vago.

Teachers learn valuable skills from service in military

By ANNALEE BARNETT g sports editor

BEFORE

THEY

WERE

known as teachers, several Cactus Shadows staffers travelled the world, aided their country, and underwent military training all in service to various branches of the United States military.

Augustus Angeli, math teacher, joined the Navy one year after graduating high school. He then went on to complete eight years of military service with four years in active duty and in the reserves.

“My friend and I decide to join the navy together versus the army, marines, Air Force, or coast guard, based on one simple slogan, ‘sailors have more fun’,” said Angeli.

While on tour, Angeli traveled 16 ■ NOVEMBER 14, 2016

the world twice, in a total of two six-month tours called West Packs, or Western Pacifics. He traveled to countries such as, the Philippines, Korea, Okinawa, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, and Hawaii.

Angeli completed his tours on a ship called the USS Cleveland (LPD 7) with the title of Boatswain’s mate. Tasks of the Boatswain’s mate include, directing personnel and general upkeep of the boat like painting, upkeep of structures, rigging, equipment, and boats.

“I loved being out at sea. There was something about being out in the middle of the ocean and seeing nothing but water, and no other living thing out there except for dolphins and porpoises, and the occasional whale,” said Angeli.

After leaving the military, Angeli took many personality quizzes which all told him that he would be suited best for the teaching profession.

Ronald Richards, an English teacher, was also in the military.

However, he served in the army instead of the navy.

Richards joined after graduating college in the year of 1988, he was 22 years old at the time.

“I was a lost soul. I graduated from college and I wasn’t disciplined, so I kicked myself in the butt to get myself ready for the world,” said Richards.

Before he was stationed in Iraq, Richards underwent many months of training in different locations.

Basic training took place in Fort

Leonard Wood, Missouri during the summer.

“Emotionally I was able to handle it just fine, but physically it was a lot of hard work. You are getting about three hours of sleep, so it was kind of rough, but it was doable,” said Richards.

Other training included, survival, lingual, interrogation, and jump school. Richards had two jobs while in the military, the first was a Russian Linguist. However, when the Berlin Wall fell, the need for people in that job fell, so he was payed $30,000 dollars to switch careers.

He then became a chief of the AH64 Apache, which is an attack helicopter.

Jacob Bombacci, a history

teacher, participated in ROTC (Reserves Officer Training Corps) in both high school and college, but did not end up going into the military. He instead followed his passion of teaching and music.

“If the country asked me to serve, I would absolutely serve, but I had a choice, so I made the decision not to commision and so, I only did that short period of time in the Navy ROTC and then I came back and finished my teaching career,” said Bombacci.

For Navy ROTC, intense training is withheld until junior and senior years, however the freshmen are given a taste of boot camp their first week there. They are sent to Camp Pendleton for one week of training.

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

december tear sheets SPOTLIGHT

Humans of Cactus Shadows “The avocado is a tree that is native to south central Mexico and it is classified as a member of the flowering plant family called Lauracea. Avocados are interesting because they are cool and also smooth. I have a brother in fifth grade and that relates to avocados because he looks like an avocado. I have a mission to save avocados because there is an avocado oppression. I am going to fight until avocados are apart of the human kind, avocados are people too.”

Chase dodson, a freshman

4 logan larkin

“High School is great because it’s awesome. I’ve been a freshman for a semester, I like it, because people can drive you. You can be like, ‘Eh can I get a ride?’ and people are always like, ‘yeah.’ There’s a lot of weird freshman here. I always hug everyone, I like it because it’s my thing. I like hugging. I hug everybody, all the time.

Except if you start the hug and I don’t want the hug, but if i start the hug, that’s cool.”

Cole ChadwiCk, a freshman

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4 logan larkin

“I try to get my work done on time and try to make sure no one pushes me over the edge because I do have a short temper. It’s been hard to manage my temper in my fourth block, because there are a lot of annoying guys in it. I am excited to see my family from New York and Colorado during winter break.”

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valerie higginboth, a freshman visit www.downtownmesa.com/motorcyclesonmain/ for more information

4 logan larkin

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

Wsara windom

DECEmbER 16, 2016 ■ 9

SPOTLIGHT

EdgE of SEvEntEEn : a modErn tEEn rEality

Jamming the trunk into a new space By sara windom g style editor

By Kiera riley g opinion editor

lead singeR of tHe band, Willetta,is preforming during their set at Trunk Space.

4 sara windom

With Christmas lights dangling from the walls, balloons covering the floor, and ribbons draping from the ceiling, the Trunk Space held their first Semi-Social event inside their new permanent home at the Grace Lutheran Church.

The Trunk Space showcases the local art and music scene of Phoenix, and after closing down for a period over summer, it is up and running once again.

Upon entering, a few things stood out: a giant cross, prayers carved into wood, and an oversized American flag. Approaching everything with an open mind proved to be difficult, as these subtle accessories just reminded me of where I was. Would God approve of my moshing?

Looking like prom night in a high school gymnasium straight out of the ‘80s, even the slightest thing, such as getting to the stage required passing through balloons.

I loved it. Avoiding this trail conveniently winded you up right at the merchandise booths for all of the bands.

Here, I scored free buttons and stickers, but T-shirts, cassette tapes and EPs were available for purchase.

Once the bands were set up, music started playing and gaps in the crowd started closing up. It was like an episode of Later… With Jools Holland, four bands lined up against three sides of the room and would switch off every few songs.

“For each round, all bands set up at the same time and we go in a circle. No openers, no closers, non-stop music,” according to thetrunkspace.com.

There were two rounds; the first being a more laid back style, featuring local bands Herbert Walker, Willetta, Nick Perkins and Kolezanka.

Hebert Walker kicked off the show with groovy jazz tunes that were reminiscent of Julian Casablancas’ early solo career. After two songs, it switched to Willetta.

When it was time to switch to the final act in Round 1, Kolezanka, closing my eyes, I thought I was hearing the clever lyrics and beautiful voice of Annie Clark. They were most definitely my favorite.

In the center of the floor, a large, homemade wrestling ring sat, packing the crowd tightly, but was moved later. For some reason, though, in the second set people adorned in wrestling gear announced a new band each time they played. I am still unsure of the purpose behind it, and why so many of them went overboard to the point where a band even cut them off and just started playing.

As soon as the first band, Sonoran Chorus, was announced, it was obvious whoever was running sound cranked it up. The crowd seemed to love this, and after a mellow set, they were clearly ready to let their hair down. A mosh pit broke out immediately. The friend I was with finally reappeared to me after being swept up in the crowd for a few minutes.

“At one point there were two bodies that I was inbetween and I was just kind of suspended in the air,” he then shouted to me over the music.

Once the pit broke out, it did not stop, not even when bands changed over. Playboy Manbaby, The Expos, and The Mad Doctors kept the crowd engaged the entire time, blaring punk music from wall to wall.

This went on until around 11, and when the crowd started thinning out, front row was easier to access.

However, since the bands were playing on the floor, I almost accidentally tackled The Expos mid-set.

Even with a few bumps here and there, this venue allows for more people to attend without it feeling cramped, and with cutesy decorations that gave off vintage vibes, the new space is better than ever before.

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

The dreaded stereotypical teen movie tends to consist of overdone cliches and 30 year olds parading around as 16 year olds. With situations so far fetched and so exhausted, it is hard to find a movie to relate to these days. Coming of age films that skip the misconception are hard to come by and that’s why The Edge of Seventeen is so important for this generation.

It’s comparison to The Breakfast Club, Sixteen Candles, and other classics may seem farfetched, but it could not be closer to the truth.

Nadine, played by Hailee Steinfeld, is a junior in high school struggling with major self esteem issues and combatting it with major sarcasm and satire. Her best friend Krista, played

by Haley Lu Richardson, has been along for the ride as Nadine’s closest (and only) friend.

The major conflict starts when Nadine finds Krista in bed with her brother, Darian, played

by Blake Jenner.

Krista reaches out to Nadine, trying to preserve both her friendship with her and her now romantic relationship with Darian, but it ultimately implodes on the count of Nadine’s stubbornness. In the following weeks, Nadine struggles with loneliness over the loss of her best friend, hopelessness over an impossible crush, and the general awkwardness that comes with existing in high school.

With little help from her distressed mother, played by Kyra Sedgwick, Nadine turns to her history teacher, played

by Woody Harrelson.

The combination of his “counseling” and dry sense of humor subtly coaches Nadine through

her problems. Nadine also finds refuge with a sweet, but equally awkward new friend, Erwin, played by Hayden Szeto.

The turbulent situations involving her brother, her best friend, her mother, and her crush all snowball into a relatable, thoughtful, and well done teen movie. One of the thing that really stood out is that the story line avoids making her brother and her best friend into villains as so many teen movies often do.

It’s refreshing as it attacks the teenage experience in a new, modern way. Nadine’s story may not be something that happens to every young person, but the way she feels through the movie and her methods of dealing with it hit home.

“I feel like it’s just showing what this girl’s life is like and this is something you can

Haley lu RicHaRdson plays Nadine’s best friend, Krista, in the edge of 17. 4 david siegel

relate to. Everyone takes something a little bit different from it,” said Haley Lu Richardson, an actress.

The themes of insecurity, high school crushes, and awkward situations make it an unapologetic and realistic movie. It strays away from cliches. It’s the teen movie this generation deserves. With a 94% freshness rate on rotten tomatoes and positive reviews from the majority of critics, this movie is a hit.

DECEmbER 16, 2016 ■ 11

SPOTLIGHT

A Tuna Christmas: Anything but Fishy By olivia stickEl g food editor

A Tuna Christmas takes place in a town called Tuna, dubbed “the third smallest town in Texas,” following the lives of various individuals, all connected by the littleness of the town. The main plot of the play centers around a Christmas yard display contest, but a mysterious “Christmas phantom” keeps vandalising displays. However, there are various subplots, including a son’s attempt to end his probation and leave Tuna, a mother trying to hold her family together during the holiday season, and two friends trying to make a decent living working at a fast food restaurant.

Technically, the production had very few errors, and any errors made were covered up very professionally. When lines were forgotten, improv saved the day. When sound

effects were early, the actors made it work. One thing that was really outstanding was the quick changes and character changes. Some were so fast, I almost forgot it was the same actor. Almost everyone played two parts, which requires double the effort than just playing one— something that should be applauded.

Another aspect that was enjoyable was the fact that the play was so unstructured. The mannerisms of the actors fit perfectly with what they were saying, but did not look choreographed. Normally, plays seem over-rehearsed, which is fine for serious plots, but for more comedy based plays it’s nice to not have it seem stiff.

As for the best character portrayals, honestly, they were all very well done. To pick a few, Maggie Ewens , a junior, did an amazing job playing Bertha Bumiller, a distressed

housewife who is having some trouble dealing with her crazy children.

Ewens portrayed the humor and tomboyish behavior of a southern mother with a redneck background with humor and a realistic attitude.

Sam Chartier, a junior, and Tara Prager, a junior, did a great job playing two radio hosts of the town’s radio station. They bounced off of each other’s words and humor well, adding a good flow to the scenes.

Although she had two minor parts, Ashley Shirley, a sophomore, shined with an amazing personality, playing a conceited, but friendly rich housewife. Almost every line she spoke made the audience laugh in a genuine way.

Overall, A Tuna Christmas was a well produced play, and was 100 percent worth seeing.

4logan larkin

U kiera riley

PreParing for oPening night at an after school rehearsal, Maggie Ewens, a junior, and Sam Chartier, a junior, going through their scene together.

timeless christmas tale of nutcracker told through dance

By ElzaBEth BEnnEtt g staff writer with additional reporting by GracE haycraft-MckEE

Zoolights. Polar Express train.

A visit to Santa’s Village. Each December, thousands of families attend events that celebrate the holiday spirit.

One tradition, the Nutcracker, has become a popular family holiday ritual. This children’s tale is performed all around the world..

The story is about a young girl’s favorite Christmas toy, the Nutcracker, who comes alive in her dream. The Nutcracker defeats the evil Mouse King and becomes 10 ■ December 16, 2016

a prince. The ballet portrays many different characters that bring the story to life, such as the Sugar Plum Fairy and, of course, the Nutcracker.

“It’s a really fun experience and, even if you don’t like ballet, it’s really cool to see the variety of characters.

Some Nutcrackers have different characters in them. They are not all the same and there are different versions of it,” said Alyssa Wong, a sophomore dancer.

For some families, it is an annual tradition to go see the ballet during the holidays i, a way to

get into the Christmas spirit. The story includes the dance of the flowers, and the comical Mother Ginger, who has children hiding in her skirts.

“I typically attend the Nutcracker. As a child I would go every year to Boston Ballet's Nutcracker on the Sunday prior to Christmas. I now take my fiveyear old daughter, Nina, to Ballet Arizona's Nutcracker,” said Elissa Ericson, a dance teacher.

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky composed the music for the first Nutcracker show back in the 1890s in Russia. At first, critics were not

impressed and Tchaikovsky died before the production became well known. The Nutcracker has become one of his most famous compositions.

“I liked the acting aspect when I was in the Nutcracker, having to dance and be a character was really fun,” said Emma Povinelli, a junior and a dancer.

Many Nutcrackers are held all around the valley. The most popular is Ballet Arizona’s Nutcracker at Phoenix Symphony Hall, December 9-11 and 14-24.

Prices range from $19-$340.

Another popular Nutcracker is the

Phoenix Ballet Company’s version, shown at the Orpheum Theatre in Phoenix on December 11,12, and 22-24. Tickets are sold from $75$296. This year, the Moscow Ballet is performing The Great Russian Nutcracker at the Comerica Theater on December 22 at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets range from $20 to $80. Other performances of the Nutcracker include Ballet Etudes, Arizona Youth Ballet, Ahwatukee Ballet, Brooksher Ballet and Ballet Yuma. Detailed information on these performances can be found at www.nutcrackerballet.net THe cAcTUS SHADOWS PreSS

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September articles SPOTLIGHT SEPTEMBER EVENTS

September 16

Full Moon Hike to the Old Clay Mine

This event will take place at 7 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. This guided hike will take its participants through the trails of Cave Creek and up to the old Clay mine to experience some of the old west part of this town. It is important that each hiker bring a bottle of water, a flashlight, and a camera.

September 24

Slide the City

This event travels around the United States to give people a chance to slide a 1000 feet long water slide that stretches across their city. This event will have many different choices of food and music that is suited for all ages. This event will be coming to Fountain View on September 24 and to be able to ride the slide, each participant must bring an inflatable tube

September 16-25

Fall Arizona Restaurant Week

For the food lovers of Phoenix, this event will have all kinds of different food for those with different cravings. There will be over 200 restaurants attending and a few restaurants that will be making an appearance are Arrowhead Grill, High Tide Seafood, and Rusconi’s American Kitchen.

The price for a three course meal is around $33 a person or $44 a person.

September 23-25

Slide Across America

This is the world’s biggest inflatable water park with over 40 different inflatable water for everyone to enjoy. This is a great way to enjoy summer for one last time. Not only does this event consist of water slide, but it also has different kinds of food and music to fit anyone’s preference.

Slide Across America is located at the Salt River Frields and goes in the mornings of Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. and evening sessions on Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m.

September 24

Fiesta Peoria

Experience the incredible history and heritage of the Hispanic lifestyle of Latin American and Mexico. This function is going to be hosting plenty of live music and food coming from the Hispanic heritage. There will be different vendors, arts and crafts, and carnival rides for the kids.

This event will be held at the Peoria Sports Complex at 2 p.m. until 10:30 p.m.

Has been teaching for 30 years.

He teaches English.

Fun Fact: “I raise and show Arabian horses.”

He teaches Economics.

Fun Fact: “I went to Robert Kennedy’s daughter’s wedding.”

Taught for 5 years.

Teaches English 9/10.

Fun Fact: “I love college football!

He has been teaching for 5 years. He teaches Business, Yearbook, and coaches football.

Fun Fact: “I love Pugs!”

Been teaching for 19 years.

Teaches P.E. Fun Fact: “I run marathons without training for them.”

october pictures & articles NEWS ccusd prepares for upcoming election

Travel

ccusd prepares for upcoming election

NEWS

F

many aspects of the school’s finances.

Burdick said that the board must sign or this year’s Cave Creek off on expenditures over $50,000, and School District governing that smaller expenses can be approved board elections, there will be by the District.

By Maddie Howard g spotlight editor many aspects the school’s finances. four candidates running for The of school board was involved Burdick said that the board must sign three available spots; current board in creating and approving the bond or this year’s Cave Creek off on expenditures over $50,000, and memberSchool Janet Busbee, memthat was passed year. The money District previous governing that smaller expenses canlast be approved ber Susan Clancy, andthere first will timebecanboard elections, by theraised District.from the bond will cover many didates four Kathryn Hill and JamesforRich. Theconstruction around Cactus candidates running school boardprojects was involved available current boardyear in creating and including approving the Ifthree elected, they spots; will serve a four Shadows, thebond new football member Janet Busbee, previous mem- that was passed last year. The money term. field. ber Susan Clancy, and first time can- raised from the bond will cover many The governing board’s main job is “I’m really excited to see the finished didates Kathryn Hill and James Rich. construction projects around Cactus toIf create for the product of thethe construction elected, and they oversee will servepolicies a four year Shadows, including new footballaround the schools.

The board approves policy, term. field. school,” said Kailey McCann, a junior. “I puts it into the schools, then checks thetogoverning board continThe governing board’s main job is to “I’mhope reallythat excited see the finished to create and oversee policies for the product the construction around the see if the policy is making a difference. uesofto make good decisions about renoschools.

The board approves policy, the school,” said Kailey a junior.

“The board is allowed to tweak vations thatMcCann, will benefit the“I school for puts it into the schools, then checks to hope that the governing board continpolicies passed down from the leg- a long time.” see if the policy is making a difference. ues to make good decisions about renoislature to make it more custom for The school governing board is a vol“The board is allowed to tweak the vations that will benefit the school for the schools,” Dr.from Debbi policies passedsaid down the Burdick, leg- a longunteer time.” position. Two current board Superintendent. are resigning, Karen Tufts islature to make it more custom for Themembers school governing board is a volthe schools,” said are Dr. not Debbi Burdick, unteerand position.

Two current Many students aware of what David Schaefer, bothboard of whom have Superintendent. members arefor resigning, the governing board does and how their served several Karen terms.Tufts Many students are not aware of what and David Schaefer, both of whom have decisions affect what they learn and “As a high schooler, you want folks the governing board does and how their served for several terms. who teaches them. Ultimately, it is the “Aswho are around and present at the decisions affect what they learn and a high schooler, you want folks school boardthem. who Ultimately, determines and and make decisions who teaches it iswho the will who school are around present at thefor the stube hiredboard or fired the schools.

Youdecisions want people who school whoat determines whoBecause will schooldents. and make for the stu-care about be hired or fired the schools. dents.the Youstudents want people whoabout care about teachers are soat important toBecause a student’s and the education teachers are sodirectly important to a student’s about thesaid education learning, this affects students.the students they areand receiving,” Burdick. learning, this directly affects students. they are receiving,” said Burdick.

“I want a teacher that will make an Each person running for school “I want a teacher that will make an Each person running for school impression on me that I will remem- board must be a registered voter, live in impression on me that I will remem- board must be a registered voter, live in ber,” said Ellie Garner, a junior. the Creek Cave School Creek District SchoolboundDistrict boundber,” said Ellie Garner, a junior. the Cave The school board boardalso also oversees becitizen. a U.S. citizen.

The school oversees aries, aries, and beand a U.S.

By Maddie Howard g spotlight editor

by maddie howard § spotlight editor

As fall arrives, Arizonans flock north to Flagstaff and Sedona to take in the colorful changing atmosphere.

Flagstaff and Sedona both reach their peak of fall color towards the end of September to mid-October.

Even though the changes in leaves don’t result in a deep North-Eastern United States red, the leaves still change to a dark orange.

“Coming from Massachusetts, the leaves and the fall air don’t feel the same out here as they do back home, but it’s still so beautiful,” said freshman, Lauren Janowski.

One spot in Flagstaff that has hit a yellow-orange tone leaves in late September is the Arboretum.

This area in Flagstaff is apart of the Colorado Plateau and overlooks the San Francisco Peaks. It is home to a large forest of pine trees.

The Arboretum is a place used for research about the plant and animals that reside in northern Arizona and it is also a top spot to see some golden aspens for miles.

“I remember coming up to Flagstaff to visit my sister during the fall and I was loving the cool weather and the change of scenery,” said spanish teacher, Johna Jacobson.

For a more adventurous way to see the changing leaves in Flagstaff, a hike to the Inner Basin of the San Francisco Peaks will uncover all kinds of fall wonder.

Along the peaks, there is a gold touch to the aspens that stand.

During the hike, the trail is bombarded with pines that leave the trail with an orange-gold undertone all around to give the hiking experience an extra fall feel. This is a 12.8 mile loop that is at a moderate level.

Flagstaff is also home to the popular destination, the Arizona Snowbowl.

The destination has its tourist peak typically during the winter months because of skiing and snowboarding, but the Snowbowl has a variety of areas to see during the fall

season.

“I have only been to Snowbowl once during the fall and my favorite part was how it immediately started to feel like it was actually fall,” said junior, Alaina Woolf.

One of the activities that tourists do to enjoy Snowbowl during the fall would be the Scenic Chairlift. The lift gives tourists the opportunity to enjoy all of Flagstaff’s fall scenery in just a short time. From the chairlift, people are able to see the gold, crisp leaves of the aspens for miles around.

To see more leaves changing color just, drive about an hour south of Flagstaff to the red rock city of Sedona.

“I love the feeling of the small town of Sedona and with the weather changing and the leaves, it makes the town really cozy,” said Woolf.

A hot spot for Arizonians looking to escape the desert landscape to enjoy fall would be Oak Creek Canyon.

While hiking on the West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon, visitors can get a taste of the North-East United States with a variety of crimson leaves that the pines on the trail carry.

“I remember that I thought the colorful leaves combined with the color of the red rocks was such a cool scenery,” said Woolf.

In 2014, there was the Slide fire that has caused some of the trees to burn down, but the remaining trees are still flourishing the trail and giving all of the fall colors to this area.

Another trail that leads to a fall wonderland is the Secret Canyon trail.

This trail leads up to the Red Rock Secret Wilderness which is home to magnificent rock formations.

The trail goes through a strong forested area with pine trees that are immersed with colorful leaves.

There are also colorful pines that are at the bottom of the canyon that harbor a few small streams.

Once hikers enter the secret wilderness, they are able to see pines throughout the landscape that coordinate with the natural red rocks.

F

mellow yellowEllie Garner, junior, explores the colorful hues of the aspens during her hike through the Inner Basin of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff.

4maddie howard

seeing seasons

grant the Cave Creek Education Foundation gave Allison Zilka, Zilka, a history atdistrict, grant the the district, the Cave Creek Education Foundation gave Allison a history cher a check ofteacher $2,300.

Zilkaofshared moment with governing board member Cynthia Weiss. a check $2,300.the Zilka shared the moment with governing board member Cynthia Weiss.

ogan larkin

4 logan larkin

18 ■ OctOber 14, 2016

tHe cActUS SHADOWS PreSS

Student Council elects thisyear’s year’s student student body leaders tudent Council elects this body leaders

By Maddie Howard g spotlight editor

a whole conducts over 600 hours of

senior year. School

communityover service over the year. is soyear. muchSchool more fun a whole conducts 600 hours of senior As A fresh yeAr comes “We also over wantthe to give you’remore involved,” community service year.back to the is soifmuch fun around, there are new students“We whoalso community all different said Busbee.

A fresh yeAr comes want to in give back toways,” the said if you’re involved,” run for the opportunity to be in charge Bender.

Delaney Barrett, a nd, there are new students who community in all different ways,” said said Busbee. of the student body and all of the Compared to last year’s election, senior, is the student or the opportunity to be in charge Barrett, a affairs necessary to create Bender. the best there has been an increase in stu- Delaney body vice president he student school body environment and all of for the torunning last year’s election, senior, student students.Compared dents for positions. thisis the year.

During all about “Manyan more students in have stepped years of rs necessary The to student create government the best is there has been increase stubodyher vicefour president promoting what leadershipdents really up to for run positions. for offices in this year’s elecschool, Barrett ol environment for students. running this high year.

During means. Eachisstudent who is voluntion. Istudents have a strong involved he student government all about “Many more havephilosophy stepped that her has fourbeen years of teering for student government must leadership does not require a title and with student counmoting what leadership really up to run for offices in this year’s elec- high school, Barrett show their leadership skills by giving the students that didn’t win the office cil. Barrett was the ns. Each student whoa positive is volunI have a they strong philosophy has communications been involved the students groundtion. to walk that went for will stillthat be amazng for student government does not require a title and said withdirector studenthercounon when they come must to school.leadershiping leaders in student council,” junior w their leadership skills bytogiving the students that didn’t win the office cil. Barrett was “You just have have leadership in Bender. year, and ranthe the your heart,” said Cameron Thisfor year’s body president social media aspect students a positive ground to walk Bender, thatstuthey went willstudent still be amazcommunications dent to council advisor. is senior Laurencouncil,” Busbee. Busbee of student when they come school. ing leaders in student said has director her council. junior The ultimate goal for student coun- been involved with student council all As vice president, Barrett wants ou just have to have leadership in Bender. year, and ran the cil would be to fill the campus with four years of high school. to make sure everyone comes out heart,” saidschool Cameron Bender, stu-the students This year’s studenttobody president social aspect spirit, so that “I wanted get involved with stuof media their shell this year to show more council advisor. is senior Lauren Busbee.

Busbee has of student council. don’t have a hard time finding excite- dent council during freshman year school spirit. he ultimate goal student school. coun- been involved student viceVP,president, Barrett wants ment for surrounding whenwith I saw the pepcouncil rallies all and fun As “As I want everyone to look up “Wethe want to nurture positive I wanted to be able to help to me and that it iscomes okay to out be would be to fill campus withthe four years assemblies. of high school. to make sureknow everyone culture Cactus Shadows, as well as putto stuff like that,” with said Busbee. goofyshell and this showyear school spirit,” more said ol spirit, so thatat the students “I wanted getoninvolved stu- of their to show the school spirit,” said Bender.

Busbee’s inspiration for running for Barrett. t have a hard time finding excite- dent council during freshman year school spirit.

Not only does student council pro- student body president was to make From the beginning, Barrett was t surrounding school. when I saw the pep rallies and fun “As VP, I want everyone to look up mote a fun culture at Cactus Shadows, her senior year as memorable as pos- inspired by her sister, who was stuWe want to but nurture the positive assemblies.

I wanted to be able to help to me and know that ittoisget okay be they also promote community ser- sible. dent body president, the to stuure at Cactus Shadows, as well as council put stuff that,”tosaid Busbee. goofy andtoshow said vice around town.

Student as on like “I wanted be really involved my dents have aschool fun andspirit,” memorable school spirit,” said Bender.

Busbee’s inspiration for running for Barrett.

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

addie Howard g spotlight editor

student body

times while at school. president, “When my sister was in student Lauren busbee council, I’d see her do goofy dress up leads the Nest in a cheer days and put on different events.” said at the firststudent pep rally of body times while at school.

Barrett. the school year. The president, my “I “When thought it wassister cool towas be ininthestudent pep rally helped students Lauren busbee background of see things and to plan council, I’d her doget goofy dresswho upare new to the Nest leads the Nest in a cheer to understand certain events like homecoming.” days and put on different events.” cheers said and at traditions. the first pep rally of Over the past four years, Bender has Barrett. school year. The 4 loganthe larkin seen how Busbee and Barrett’s leader“I thought it was cool to be in the pep rally helped students ship has grown. She believes that they background things and will encourage of leadership andget funto plan who are new to the Nest to understand certain events homecoming.” around thelike school.

and traditions.

Over the past four years, BenderOCTObER has cheers 14, 2016 ■ 5

or bowl bought benefits the hungry.

Minimum donations are $15 dollars and it comes with the bowl chosen, a water bottle, and a piece of bread. The food is meant to represent the daily rations the hungry would receive.

This year’s event took place for the first time at Harold’s Corral, and with hundreds of bowls and even more people, it was a successful year.

The event raises approximately

November articles

CAVE CREEK RESIDENTS DEEDEE WOOD AND GORDON MISCHKE, along with many others from across the valley, joined Harold’s Corral on World Hunger Day to help support St. Mary’s Food Bank. 4LOGAN LARKIN

for the hungry as well as an opportunity for students to show their art,” said Tori Auer, a junior in Ceramics.

The project has also helped to raise awareness of hungry families in the Cave Creek area. According to St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance, Arizona’s hunger rates are higher than the national averages: 17.8 percent of Arizonans are food insecure and the national average is 15.9 percent.

NATIONAL ENGLISH HONORS SOCIETY RAISES AWARENESS FOR BANNED BOOKS WEEK

By MADDIE HOWARD g spotlight editor

The National English Honor Society also known as NEHS is a club consisted of students that explore their love for literature.

This year the club has been raising awareness for Banned Books Week that started on September 25- October 1.

Banned Books Week took place across the country to show people what kinds of books are being taken under the rule of censorship. Some of these books are favorites to many, including The Great Gatsby.

“I was definitely surprised by the amount of books that were put on the list, some of my favorite books are on the list and I never even considered that they were ‘banned’,” said Maddie McCormick, a junior and NEHS member.

Some of the books that are also on the

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

list are a classic example of traditional English literature that has been read by many people for many years.

“We need to be exposed to an advanced type of literature level in order to get better at reading and analyzing,” said Abby Kitnick, a junior and NEHS member.

OLD BOOKS STILL BANNED

High schools students around the country are still reading books that were put on the banned list. Many of these books hold an amount of literature that has been taught in classrooms even before it made the list. Teachers want their students to discover this literature that can show them a way to appreciate the story.

“I don’t think any English teacher is neutral about banned books, books are a way of exchanging ideas and unless if

you aren’t afraid of ideas, you shouldn’t be afraid of books,” said Amy Metcalf, NEHS advisor and English teacher.

The censorship of books has not affected the learning environment of students because there are different types of books for each student and each grade.

There are different kinds of books that correlate with the level that each grade or each student might be at. The community is understanding of the tools that the students may need in order to gain more knowledge by these books.

REBELLIOUS READERS

“I must give the teachers credit for not wanting to teach their students something that they are not ready for, but I also believe people in this community value education to the point that they get that

students should have many views and ideas as a good thing,” said Metcalf.

The goal for the National English Honor Society during Banned Books week was to think about all of the different books, that have been accused of censorship, and to bring awareness to them.

“People have always liked forbidden fruit, so if there is something on that list that’s forbidden, it makes it more appealing, so the goal, to get people to read,” said Metcalf.

Banned Books week is all about getting people to see the true stories within these books and to express what impact they all have on the learning environment. NEHS is a club that shares a love for literature and they want to spread that love across the school.

NOVEMBER 14, 2016 ■ 3

December articles Tis’ the season of giving. Many community members and students at Cactus Shadows are participating in the 14th Annual Adopt-a-Family program that is sponsored by the Foothills Food Bank in Cave Creek.

The families who are able to become the recipients of the donated gifts are required to be a patron to the Foothills Food Bank already. This food bank has 15 mile boundary of families to serve.

“Registered clients must prove residency of where they live. Each family member must have a valid ID whether it be a driver's license, birth certificate, social security card, school record, etc,” said Jeannine Dittoe, the Adopt-a-Family Co-Chair.

When the donors are assigned a family, they are able to choose the size of the family and how much they want to invest in the family.

“We ask the families to list two items for each family member with both items not exceeding $50,” said Dittoe, “After the donors give their gifts, they receive a charitable tax reduction.”

The people in these families all range from infants to even senior citizens. Some people live in multigenerational homes or even alone. With this, the gift requests from the families widely range.

“People request gift cards to WalMart or grocery stores. Others request household items such as silverware, pots, pans, or towels, and of course, children want toys, books, and bikes,” said Dittoe.

The groups that are participating in the Adopt-a-Family program at Cactus Shadows is the boys basketball, drama club, DECA, spanish honor society, art alliance, yearbook, newspaper, and student council. With these groups participating, it gives the students a chance to donate as well, if they don’t adopt a family on their own.

“I think this foundation is good at showing the aspects of how simple it can be to give back,” said Mackenzie Moller, a junior drama club member.

Adopt-a-Family is able to show students how and community member how it’s not about receiving, during the holidays, but investing some time to help out someone less fortunate.

“Adopt-a-Family always inspires me to do the best I possibly can and the most I possibly can,” said Rachel Papetti, a sophomore student council member.

As many of the families request the necessities such as gift cards to grocery stores, students want the families to get fun gifts that will give them something to look forward to.

“Besides giving a family a $20 gift card to a store, someone should make sure when they donate, they should include something like toys, books, and fun things like that,” said Moller.

Even though people sign up to donate a gift, some may forget to give their gift.

“The biggest concern is making sure the donors follow through and deliver their gifts on time for the Adopt-aFamily event on December 11,” said Dittoe.

At the Adopt-a-Family event, the families are able to meet Santa Claus, pick out a donated toy from the Rural Metro Fire Department, enjoy a meal, and then pick up the donated gifts.

“The children are all dressed up for Santa and the parents have joy in their hearts. The families are very grateful for a helping hand to make ends meet have food on the table and to have something under the tree for Christmas,” said Dittoe.

Adopt-a-Family is all around the country and this program is able to give less fortunate families a chance to have a memorable holiday season.