Sara Windom 2017 Portfolio

his semester was all about adjusting. To the new school year, new writers to editors, the Intrigue magazine, and in my case, most importantly, to my new role as Editor in Chief. Although I was an editor for two years before this, the two roles differ a lot. As an editor, there is always a higher power that you must comply to; telling you what to cover, how to design, and on it goes. However, as Editor in Chief, I am that power, and must discuss those topics with editors, and check in on their pages.

Being Editor in Chief this year has helped advance my leadership skills past what I thought I was capable of. As Style Editor I have kept a close eye on writers and made sure to communicate with them on whether or not

all of my content would be there come production day.

Now, as the Chief, I must check in with both writers and editors and evaluate if they are doing an adamant job in their role. On production days, my leadership is put to the test, assigning tasks for available staffers, while designing my two pages and helping editors in need. While I love this job, there is no denying it gets tricky developing these skills.

Directing peers without sounding overpowering and bossy can be a challenge, and with so many of the staff belonging to the senior class, I have struggled with finding the perfect sweet spot. Understandably, it can be hard to have your best friend in math

class be your superior in another. Overall, though, I have found that by communicating every little detail and explaining why I did a certain thing, my relationships with peers have persevered through it all.

I believe maintaining my focus on what’s best for the paper is an excellent way to lead the class, and plan on leading it similarly next semester, although with new situations arise new ideas and changes to my management. lthough I did not learn how to do it this semester, I was able to play around a lot more with graphics and illustrations for the publication. Because we have lacked graphics in the paper for al-

most every year it has been produced, I wanted to try out incorporating my drawing skills into the paper.

Especially after seeing so many award winning papers with heavily illustrated content, inspiration struck me. On the first issue of the paper, I produced an outline drawing of a hand holding a child on a swing. Though it was very minimal, I found the graphic to be very powerful, and it coordinated well with the story. Since

then, I have produced more drawings for the paper, and even practice them in my free time. Not only do I use a similar method in my personal publication, Goth Grrrl, but I plan to use this skill in future projects and productions.

As a paper, it seems we never lack in beauty.

Our pages are filled with interesting info graphics and color schemes, and amazing photos and artwork. However, it seems

that collectively the staff finds turning in articles on time to be difficult.

Generally, in other classes, while assignments have a set due date, late work is still taken for full or partial credit. However, in the journalism world, our deadline is strict. If articles are not finished on time, they go unpublished and cannot be made up. This not only creates problems for editors trying to cover up a blank space on their pages, but also leaves the writer unpublished, and with a poor grade. Happening very often at the beginning of the year, many new writers did not understand the importance behind deadlines. Articles would go completely unwritten, photos not taken; anything at all could go unfinished.

While we have already addressed this problem, and it seems to be as solved as it can be, in the future I plan on maintaining my expectations that staffers get their pieces done on time. I believe by double assigning articles without the promise of publication, continuously teaching how to write articles, get interviews, and time manage it all, and checking in on the staff periodically, I believe

we can combat the trouble faced with deadlines.

Besides deadlines, another struggle is journalism ethics. With all the rumors of fake news recently, there is more pressure than ever to produce a balanced and objective paper, however this can be difficult.

When covering heated topics like DACA, abortion, and gun control, it is important to ensure that no opinion goes into the reporting other than the quotes taken from interview-ees. While writers putting their opinion in stories has been a bit of an issue this year, or only interviewing people of one side, we have always made sure to tweak this before published. Looking from the first issue to now, and there are so few errors than before because authors are learning from their mistakes. his semester, I was an asset to the staff for a variety of reasons.

Not only would I edit every article belonging to both the CSPress and Intrigue, but I also spoke with writers about their articles, and check in to see if they had everything they needed. I contributed to several of the front page articles and the photos paired with them, drew graphics for several pages, helped new editors with overall design, and have started helping new staffers become familiar an editor position.

For example, I wrote the sexual assault front page, and drew the graphic to go with it. Also, when most seniors went to take the ASVAB, I spent the hour teaching Maja basic InDesign skills, which is vital because no editors are returning next year.

Overall, I did not face many hardships this year other than having to complete 18 interviews in one day. Other than this, I have really only dealt with issues secondhand.

My Co-Editor in Chief had faced several complaints about not communicating well enough, but these were not a reflection of myself, however, I was still involved in dealing with these complaints. Though I was not the one facing trouble, I still attended a meeting with those who were unhappy with the current communication skills.

Hearing what they had to say inspired me to better myself, and I am able to talk more openly with editors and have healthier relationships with them. If these problems arose again and this time were towards myself, I would try even harder to be more open with anything and everything I can be.

I believe my greatest weakness is tied to this communication struggle, but it is not a weakness of communicating with editors on changes or articles. My communication struggle stems more from finding people to interview. Because I practically live in the Newspaper room, and the majority of my friends are on

the publication, it can be hard to find students to interview. However, I have already began my trek to overcome this weakness by using the list of students in each grade.

When it comes to an article that can use a quote from virtually anyone, I like to expand my horizons and pick a name from the list.

Being on Yearbook helps as well, because it forces me to meet and talk to new people every day. I plan on using both of these tools to get the best interviews possible.

s Editor in Chief this year, so many of my peers look up to me. I am expected to contribute excellent work, handle all challenges professionally, and overall set a good example. This semester, I believe my most significant contribution was picking up the slack when nobody else would during the October issue of the paper. There is no denying the paper was in rough shape with only a few days left of production week. With no one stepping up to volunteer, assigning them would not be constructive. Reliable editors were already swamped with work, and almost everyone on the staff did not complete an article. Most had several articles undone. After compiling a list of each person who did not complete an article and which article it was, we were forced to decide to cut pages by the fours, or make up missed work. With so many vital articles left untouched or unfinished, Kiera and I stepped up to the plate, and began conducting interviews that hour. Once we finished speaking with every individual we could find, a total of 18 meetings, we began writing. With our already hectic lives, the writing process was done by staying after class or after school, and meeting before the sun was up at a Starbucks for three or four days. After we

stumbled through a rough draft, we edited the articles relentlessly until we felt like we had produced satisfactory work.

Then came the struggle for photography. Realizing most of what had not been written also paired with a photograph, Kiera and I had to get creative. The next day was packed full with photo taking, illustrating, and sidebar making. At last, though we neared dangerous-

ly to the paper’s print date, all was finalized. Friends in class joked that my name was the only one published as a writer for the news section, but it was rather unsettling to see. If Kiera and I had not raced to make each missing article complete, the paper would be lacking severely, or may have gone without printing at all, which is not a sacrifice I am willing to make.

Although this was an excruciatingly exhausting week to endure, I think stepping up and showing what we were able to accomplish in such a short span of time was a great (and completely unintentional) contribution to the CSPress. Not only did we save the paper from its almost unpublishable state, but we also set a fantastic example by doing so. Since then, I have noticed a considerable difference in the quality of work produced, and willingness to do it. I have found that many staff writers that used to lack motivation are now enthusiastic about taking on an article. Many also have all of their interviews done on time, with photos and sidebars to match.

This has been an astounding change of pace, and I hope to maintain that enthusiasm from second semester and beyond.

the attack of anxiety

THE WHAT’S As the school year begins, so does the anxiety and stress that comes with it, making it important for students INSIDE to understand and address these issues before it is too late.

THE SEPTEMBER 25, 2017 ISSUE

S

By MORGAN REIMER g staff writer

TUDENT anxiety levels have become exponentially greater throughout the years. Through technology, school presentations, and general school requirements, stress and anxiety levels are more dangerous ever before.

Everyone has experienced stress at one point in their lives, but the important matter is understanding how stress affects different people, and how to control it. A little stress can be effective. That little twinge that someone gets when they have to complete an assignment is what makes them complete their work. Not enough stress leads to no motivation. Although, an excessive amount of stress will lead to not only being unproductive, but overwhelmed and feeling frozen as well.

There is a slight difference between anxiety and stress. |KIERAisRILEY AND SARAamong WINDOM everyone, and is a strain of the Stress common mind. Anxiety is when people have constant or excessive LET’S GETthat COOKIN’ worries about things are likely to never happen. These Thefeel newest elective offers and overwhelming to peothoughts can uncontrollable culinary and lifestyle tips and ple of all ages. tools for students. Morgan covers the cooking If there Reimer is a subject or extra-curricular activity students class. are passionate about, they try to make time for everything.

Although this can cause more stress, the key to getting through everything with organization.

ARIZONAstarts MERIT “I have a pretty busy schedule now that I’m in IB, and it’s SCORES PLUMMET gonna get a lot worse when club volleyball comes. But it’s Following the third year of worth it because I loveofit,the ” said administration AZ Jordan Anderson, a junior.

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Merit standardized test, students scores dropped significantly with a large percentage of failing tests.

Sara Windom delves into possible consequences and the next steps for the school.

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Students at school do not typically like to admit they have anxiety.

“Many students, especially now, think they are managing stress in the right ways, but have it all wrong. Instead of using beneficial steps in aiding their anxiety, they resort to negative coping affects,” said Reimer.

What people tend to turn to are the negative coping devices, that are sometimes called self-medicating. This The newspaper of Cactus includes juuling, drinking, drugs, and Shadows eventually self-harm, School in Cave Creek, Arizona which is the brutalHigh way to ‘numb’ the pain rather than dealing with it positively. What students should be doing to manage their stress is to find positive ways to cope. This includes self-soothing, deep breathing, and mindfulness.

Everyone has stress, or will have some form of stress surrounding them at one point in their lives. It has increased, especially with the added pressure on students to do well in their classes. Some key advice is not to sweat the small problems in life.

“Don’t underestimate the power of slow deep breaths.

Don’t keep giving the anxious thoughts attention. Be prepared. The more you’re ready for a presentation or test, the less nervous you’ll feel. Prepare, take deep breaths, and tell yourself, ‘I got this,’ even if that’s the last thing on your mind. How we think leads to how we feel. Don’t forget that,” said Reimer.

Staying positive and prepared will aide students control of themselves, and assist them on their healthier outlook on life.

Cutting clas

New cooking class prepares for life after high school

PRESS

By MORGAN REIMER g staff writer

N

ew this year, students can take part the Culinary Arts program that foc on team building, cooking, and ove life skills.

Barbara Burt, the Culinary Arts teac decided to take on the challenge of new dents, a new atmosphere, and creating types of food.

“I love the creativeness of it. Everyo happy when you have food,” said B “Students will get to learn life skills, like paring food for themselves whilst on t own, and learning to live a healthier style.”

So far, students made cupcakes and c ies, and moved on to experiment with di ent dishes like salad and salsa. Throug the year, students anticipate learning k skills, and beginning to cook more diffi meals.

Because it is a brand new class, there complications alongside the fun.

“I feel it should be a two hour class just hard to split up the cooking skills w learning one day and cooking the next,” Madison Monoscalco, a junior.

On some days, it was a juggle betw classes to explain the entire lesson, have students cook the food, then have tim clean up afterwards. On top of that, ha

Save Our Schools vouches for public school students

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School can add an additional amount of stress to students, and while some decide to add more activities to their plates, others may choose to stick with what they are doing. Both can be challenging, but it solely depends on the person they are, and their work ethic.

According to the NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, and, “In any given year about 17 percent of us will have an anxiety disorder.” It is increased, it is surrounding everyone, and it is dangerous.

Stress affects all students at different times, and in several ways. According to NAMI, physical affects that students may witness while under immense stress includes headaches, stomachaches, and their hearts hurting or racing. They could also experience shakes, sweaty palms, and redness of the face.

“I feel stressed out when I have to take big exams. It sucks, but once it's over, it's a big relief,” said Madison Monoscalco, a junior.

Emotional symptoms include apprehension or dread, anticipating the worst, and being overall jumpy or tense.

This explains why, after students complete an exam, they anticipate the worst, so they can look forward to a slightly better outcome. This, however, can lead to always assuming the worst, which can turn into a more negative future outlook. For students, the best way to cope with stress and anxiety is to learn its tricks, and to not let it win.

“The first step to helping is knowing it’s anxiety,” said Dr. Dina Reimer, Psy. D, local parent and child psychologist.

LICENSED TO TEACH The newest piece of legislation allows for districts to hire teachers without formal certifications. Brook Bowman and Aidia Nielson discuss the bill and how its affecting schools across the valley.

STRESSED OUT With the start of the school year comes the start of stress, students dive into the essence of anxiety, the effects of high stress, and the best ways to combat it .

BICKLE REBOUNDS \SARA WINDOM FROM INJURY

Starting forward, Caitlin Bickle, recovers from a torn ACL keeping college scholarships, the upcoming season, and the future in mind.

Kassidy Wheeler discusses Bickle and the basketball team’s next move,

With the controversial voucher expansion bill going on the 2018 ballot, students, teachers, and local organizations await to see if legislators will leave public schools hanging on a dollar.

After collecting 111,540 signatures, Save Our Schools Arizona successfully passed a referendum to put the decision to expand Empowerment Scholarship Account, or Senate Bill 1431, on the 2018 ballot. The controversial expansion of the state’s voucher program faces both support and opposition from groups around Arizona.

"It always feels great when hard work pays off. Multiply that by the 3,000 volunteers who came together across the state and there was a massive sense of accomplishment and validation,” said Dawn Penich-Thacker, communications director of Save Our Schools (SOS).

The latest proposal aims to open the funds to all students, regardless of ability, economic status, ethnicity, etc. Republican sponsors introduced the expansion to the Senate in January.

Since then, the bill underwent a series of amendments. Governor Doug Ducey signed the bill into law in April.

Initially starting as a program for students with disabilities, the Empowerment Scholarship

c venue wntown

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

ol to see all nt people, ngers, who r to see a e and to let e fun.”

elli, a senior.

Crescent Ballroom, F.L Hart Garage in n is now in the buildhe Phoenix Motor n Buren and West of the key factors in

\SARA WINDOM

nization made up of “concerned Arizona citizens who want [the] state to prioritize public education.’

“Save our Schools AZ was created just this year specifically to fight this law (to get voters to say No to Proposition 305). None of us experienced activists, none of us even collect a paycheck or have political ambitions - we just care so much about improving funding for Arizona that when they pushed through new vouchers, we said enough is enough,” said Penich-Thacker.

According to the SOS website, the voucher expansion will ultimately result in a wide array of problems on both the local and state levels. The group, citing the Arizona Republic, states on their fact sheet that, “vouchers pull millions from our already underfunded public schools, worsening the classroom crisis.” By classroom crisis, the group refers to Arizona’s dead last education rank as well as the teacher shortages.

“Teachers would suffer greatly if the bill were to pass. They already have to fund their class-

a senior, prepares the ingredients for homemade salsa. After the students prepare the food,

teachers get to taste it and vote rooms mainly out-of-pocket,” on the best. 4 SARA WINDOM said Abby Kitnick, a senior.

SOS also states that the voucher expansion will be “bad for business, unconstitutional, and unethical.” As far as business, the organization supports claims that, “states that from page 1 increase the level of education “I think the vote should be open to the public because a lot of their workforce experience of parents send their kids to prihigher overall wages,” citing the vate schools and it could seriously Economic Policy Institute. impact their child’s education, seeThe bill may be unconstituing as public schools are already tional because, according to the severely underfunded,” said Drew Ballard, a senior. website, “vouchers allow pubAs soon as the signatures were lic tax dollars to be directed to turned in, opposition groups filed religious schools.” The group lawsuits questioning the legitimacy also states that the vouchers are of the signatures. These groups unethical because it now disadvantages disabled and other students currently instated on ESA by using the first come, first serve basis.

To address these concerns, the group collected Wsignatures OLIVIA STICKEL AND GILLIAN KINZIE around the state, beginning the battle against the newest voucher bill. Save Our Schools needed 76,000 signatures by July 31 but surpassed the number near the end of July in order to get Proposition 305 on the ballot.

Vouchers

See Vouchers on page 2

spotlight

continued his tradihistoric building music venue, just as

Account (ESA) funds tuition, textbooks, curriculum, and other school essentials. Following a series of expansions, the ESA currently covers disabled children as well as foster care students, children in failing schools, children with active duty military members or military members killed in action, students living on tribal lands, and children with legally deaf or blind parents.

As of this year, only kindergarten, first, sixth, and ninth grade students will be eligible for the program. In 2018-2019, the program opens up to grades two, seven, and ten and by the 2019-2020 school year, grades three, eight, and eleven will have access. Legislators plan to completely phase the bill in by the 2020-2021 school year, opening the opportunity to all grades (K-12).

Despite the passing of this bill, many school organizations refute ESA, arguing the point that it takes money away from public schools. Among these groups is Save Our Schools Arizona, a volunteer run orga-

CHOP TO IT. Tanner Laisure,

its success, according to Levy.

“It’s exciting to be a part of the downtown fabric,” Levy says. “It’s almost starting to become the epicenter of live music and the arts.”

With such close proximity with other venues such as the Valley Bar, Comerica, the Orpheum, the Pressroom, Trunk Space, and plenty more, people are within biking distance of different venues and can see different shows even in just one night.

“I love finding new places to go and things to do Downtown,” said Lauryn Stornelli, a senior. “Especially seeing shows. It’s really cool to see all these different people, complete strangers, who come together to see a band they love and to let loose and have fun.”

Performers such as Banks, Oh Wonder, Azealia Banks, Saint Motel and Hippo Campus are scheduled to perform within the rest of the year. Age restrictions are specified for each event, excluding tickets seated on the balcony area, which are 21+. More information on scheduled bands and ticket information can be found on their website.

Annie Sogaard staff writer

support the expansion and focus their message on school choice.

Among the opposition groups are the Goldwater Institute, Americans for Prosperity, and the American Federation for Children.

Organizations like the Goldwater Institute focus on offering a wider range of educational options to children and giving parents the freedom to use their property tax dollars to educate their children as they please.

The group also argues that the

free market approach to education pushes public schools to perform better.

“This delay has put many families’ educational future in limbo as school year begins. This does a tremendous disservice to all of the parents and children whose main concern is not politics, but are simply seeking a better education that fits their needs and helps them achieve their dreams,” said Victor Riches, Goldwater Institute President and CEO, in a statement

on the Goldwater Ins Just recently, how of State Michele Rea the referendum w 2018 ballot unless declared null by law initial action, addit began popping up on national levels.

The Goldwater among the first to These lawsuits tar ity of the signatures notaries, and the w

4 ■ SEPTEMBER 25, 2017

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

NEWS

ARIZONA MERIT SCORES HIT RECORD LOW DISTRICT-WIDE

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

We’re an A school, and if that changes, how many people are going to want to go to a B school or a C school? So the public reception of a school is based on their letter, there’s going to be consequences to FEATURE the school,”

stress free or stressful?

Dr. Steve Bebee, Cactus Shadows Principal.

opinion

By SARA WINDOM g editor in chief

The 2016 Arizona Merit scores were recently released, and the decline of the school district’s results are a concern for the 2017 school year.

“For the first time ever, the school did not meet their year-long goal because of Arizona Merit scores.

Across the board from third to twelfth, there were some grades that did better than others, but as a whole we did not meet our goal,” said Dr. Steve Bebee, principal.

Having now been in effect for three years, the Arizona Merit serves as the achievement test statewide.

This year, 25 percent of juniors, 31 percent of sophomores and 36 percent of freshmen taking the Language Arts portion passed. 34 percent of students testing in Algebra II passed, while 25 percent of Geometry students did. Overall, this is down 5 percent from last year in both categories.

“I think that without the graduation requirement, students are less likely to put as much effort into the

tests causing grades to drop slightly,” many people are going to want to go BROOK said Kalia Flannery, a senior. to aBOWMAN B school or a C school? So the pubHowever,In currently, schoolworld, dis- the lic of aschool schoolstudents. is based on today’s competitive barperception is raised for high Most tricts are twenty-first not legallycentury allowed to have their letter, there’s going to Cs, be Ds, consestudents grown up in a home where and are notof accepted and college isquences the onlytooption.

Therefore, demand theFspassing Arizona Merit the school, ” saidstudents Bebee. are usingrequirement, most of their free for a test, finishing homework, or figas a graduation nortime canstudying Cactus Shadows faced several uring out a way to cheat instead of hanging with friends and family, relaxit be incorporated into a student’s obstacles during the 2016 testing ing, or just being a normal teenager. class grade. period, including computers freezAccording to the American Psychological Association, “stress has “I think impacted there are farperformance too manyat home, ing work, and aand city-wide their school.” power outage. students around the stateyears, whoStanford do While the majority of tests were able In the recent University stated that, “plagiarism and not take thecheating Arizona seriously to beproblems recovered, students were hasMerit become one of the worst that some their school and many others Plagiarism andforced cheating been proven to be linked to because there arehave no faced. consequences tohave retake the assessment. the pressures put on through high grades. ” for you at this point if that youare don’t dostudents “I did my entire test and it wouldn’t Denise Clark Pope, a lecturer atsubmit Stanford University, createdwas a study that well,” said Bebee. because everyone taking showed how most students are starting to spend more time figuring out Out of 116 Cactus Shadows stuthe test and the internet went down. ways to cheat instead of actually studying. In fact, Denise said that many dents surveyed on Aug. 28, 86 perI had to take it all over again. I gave students value high grades over education, creativity, and imagination due cent of students admitted effort first time, but the second to the immense stressto andnot anxietyitthey arethe facing. taking the Arizona time I wasAssociation so done, was it took me five A surveyMerit by theseriously.

American Psychological conducted of While the over students face teenagers no disci-varying seconds A fortoevery sina thousand from to theanswer ages thirteen seventeen recorded levels ofMerit being overwhelmed or ”depressed due to Chmura, the stress plinary action, thehigh Arizona gle question, said Michael schoolmeasure causes them. scores not only a teacher’s a senior.

I, and many others, have been taught from an early age about how imporproficiency, but help determine the With the threat of the school’s lettant school is. The problem is that we instill a mind-set that if you do not get school’s letter grade. ter grade dropping, an online curgood grades, you will not get into good college, and then you will not be suc“Our school label is going to be riculum used on campus already cessful in life. partially based onproblems your test scores.

E-Learning classes is incorpoMore arise when allwithin six student’s classes requires a minimum Cactus Shadows, my entireorcareer, rating free aAZMerit testhome preparation hour ofinhomework studying. By the time student gets from an hour day of school, they have to start their homework. By the time has been aneight excelling school.

We’re courses to all students. have to go to bed and repeat it all the next day. At some an A school,that andisifdone, thatthey changes, how

LAW$UIT In support of Ke$ha during her ongoing lawsuit against producer Dr. Luke, many celebrities have shared similar stories.

Dr. Luke was Kesha’s music producer and the two worked together frequently. After trauma from emotional, physical, verbal and sexual abuse,SEPTEMBER the singer 25, 2017 ■ 9 claimed to have nearly lost her life.

HOW DO YOU COPE WITH STRESS? Lady Gaga shared that she had been sexually harassed when she was 19 years old. With such a similar experience to Kesha, Gaga recently got a subpoena to testify in the Ke$ha vs. Dr. Luke lawsuit.

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Numerous celebrities have come to Ke$ha’s defense, includingLAUREN U TaylorHAGGAR Swift, who recently settled her own sexual harassment lawsuit, collecting $1 against a radio host, claiming he had groped her.

Sara Windom EDITOR IN CHIEF

4WIKI COMMONS intrigue SEPTEMBER 2017

“

I ALWAYS

like to take time off of schoolwork, sit outside and read a book, or sit by the pool and listen to music.”

Ashley Durso, a sophomore

\SARA WINDOM

point, a student’s mind or body is going to break and give up. This creates even more anxiety for how this might affect grades and how long it will take to fix it. One bad test grade should not keep a student from having an A in the class. Cheating seems like the easiest way out at this point.

As we start the school year, it is important to develop good coping habits in response to stress. Some easy options include writing, meditating, or just do something you enjoy.

New bill allows schools to hire teachers without certification WOLIVIA STICKEL

degree, have taught a relevant course for at available, they hire non-certified teachers. department, Luis Diaz in the world language least the past two years, and have at least five These teachers are required to take education department, and Lori Kurtz Larkin in the COLOR COORDINATION ONE PACK AT A TIME I JUST english basically hang out with Governor Doug Ducey signed Senate Bill years experience working in a relevant field. courses during the first two years of teaching department.

By assigning each school subject a color, like science green, my friends and relax with my famJuggling school, work, and everything else in the average teenager’s 1042 on May 2.

The bill allows all schools in “Today’s legislation is a win for schools, and actually become certified through this In the past, the district had an emersocial studies red, math black, students may find it easier to busy life, dealing with it all while still being organized proves to be a ily. I also study for tests, just be smart locate”the correct notebook a crunch.

Arizona tomany. hire However, teacherstaking whothehave not been teachers, and students, said Ducey.

“No inlonprocess. gency certification policy to hire non-cerchallenge for time to clear up space, clean about it don’t mess around. ” out and re-sort school supplies can make all the difference. ger will an outdatedInsider tip: Use composition notebooks“Iinstead of spiral. certified to instruct. process keep qualified, believe that these teachers will be able to tified teachers when no others were availAnthony Mattioli, Pages will last lo-nger and survive damage while a spiral The bill was created to help deal with the dedicated individuals out of the classroom. helpring our school and help our students,” says able. Diane Douglas, State Superintendent of notebook’s paper frays and metallic bends.

a sophomore significant teacher shortage in Arizona. The Instead, principals will now be empowered Abby Defelder, a sophomore.

Public Instruction, later opposed this law sayLearning Policy Institute in Arizona found to make hiring decisionsLABELLING and attract the best One of the major concerns is that these ing, “lowering the standards for new teachthat over 62 percent of school districts had individuals to serve our students.” new teachers will not know how to control a ers is not the way to correct the problem.”

If color coordination is not an option, labelling binders unfilled teaching positions three months The new bill is controversial, This could scare away applicants In other states where the law still exists, and notebookswith on theoppospine canclassroom. help put everything into place.

First,unqualified write the subject from on a small paper.to the immense responsi- the Learning Policy institute says that the into the school year, and over a 1,000 teach- nents concerned about placing thestrip jobofdue Place paper strip on the spine and tape over with shipping ers were on substitute credentials. This is teachers in the classroom instead of address- bility and stress, just when the state schools consequences are very severe since these tape. recorded as one of the highest turnover rates ing the needs of current teachers. need them the most. teachers were never prepared to instruct. of any state in the United States.

“Freshman year,KEEP I didn’t have a Spanish Sasha Sypkens, a new biology teacher and Therefore, schools were forced to increase AN AGENDA “We have been losing qualified teachers teacher first semester.

She awas long where termyouCactus Maintain singleaagenda can writeShadows all importantalumna, is one of the five class sizes, cancel classes, use short-term subWhetherat it isall, what is due innew class teachers the next day, what under the new bill. every year for at least the past five years,” sub and didn’t speakdates.

Spanish ” said hired stitutes, or assign teachers from other fields concerts are going on this weekend, when Math Club is said Scott LaVigne, an English teacher and Blake Bradshaw. “I didn’tmeeting learn anything that “She’s really good at explaining the prob- to fill up vacancies. that week, having everything in one place will Department Chair. “Many teachers are sim- semester.” lems and going into depth on how we will It will be up to districts and schools to aid sort it all in one organized place. ply leaving the profession to work in a higher School officials are faced with difficult use it in the real world,” said Kylie Klein, a these teachers in instructing students, so paying field.” decisions because of the teacher shortage. freshman student in Sypkens biology Iclass.

Arizona’s quality of education will prosper HIGHLIGHT EVERYTHING RUN and work out a lot which Senate Bill 1042 allows principals to hire The policy in Cave Creek Whether is to fillyou open posi- your Other teachers hired under the bill releases include endorphins beyond its current standards. into your body, I are reading new favorite book, understanding directions or writing notice when I don’t work out that all applicants who have a higher education tions with certified teachers but, if none are James Vogtdown and Adam Hillier in the math

By BROOK BOWMAN g staff writer

“

homework, highlights can actually maintain focus and help you understand difficult topics while becoming organized.

4OLIVIA STICKEL

Insider tip: First, make a note card key to keep track of the colors being used. Remember to make it general so it works with just about anything.

USARA WINDOM

“

that negative or stressful energy is built up inside of me.”

Ashley Shirley, a junior

4 LAUREN HAGGAR

COO

prepa beaut

4WI

By AVIANNA HOPPES g staff writer

By MAJA PEIRCE

staff writer

T

been open for over 20 years, the

NEWS

in which a six year old pageant queen was found slaughtered in her own home, still remains unsolved.

It is not so much that they do not know what happened, but more that there are too many theories, none of which can ultimately be proven. Many believe the Ramsey

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

Equestrian club lassos new members PRESS

The newspaper of Cactus Shadows High School in Cave Creek, Arizona

““I know the quality of education we provide at Cactus Shadows, I know the quality of students we have at Cactus Shadows and I don’t think our Arizona merit scores from last year even remotely reflected the intelligence of our student body and the education we do here.”

4

11

See Rank Drop on page 4

“Administrators may take it too heavily and might start pushing teachers to crack down on students or put more stress on state testing, like AZMerit and I feel like it could overstress the students,” said Kamryn Kadatoni, a senior AP student.

Besides measuring student success on the Arizona Merit, another 20 percent of the rubric measures improvement from prior years. Many public schools find this category unfair, because it rewards lower performing institutes over ones that have already been in high performance for years. Because they are measuring by improvement percentage, a school that increases their 64 percent grad-

uation rate to a 66 would gain a higher score than one that has achieved a 90 percent each year. When looked at out of context, the two percent increase is higher than maintaining an excelling score from year to year.

Another 10 percent is centered around English-Language Learning students scores on the Arizona English Language Learner Assessment (AZELLA). The last 40 percent is split between graduation rate and “College and Career readiness indicators.”

These indicators incorporate Career Technical Education (CTE) classes, SAT, ACT, and ASVAB participation, and other career recognized certificates.

In hopes of achieving an A on the 2018 assessment, administration is offering the ASVAB and the SAT for juniors free of charge to gain extra points in lacking categories.

Cactus Shadows is not alone in the drop in rating. According to AZCentral, 17 percent of high schools earned an A, 34 percent received a B, 37 percent were graded a C, nine percent earned a D and three percent received a F. Districts across the valley, including Cave Creek Unified are in the process of filing appeals. Although the state rank dropped, the school still retains its title as an A+ School of Excellence.

WONDERFUL WONDERFUL KILLS THE CHARTS

Even with the half-decade gap between Wonderful Wonderful and Battle Born (2012), the Killers have managed to pick up right where they left off. Of the same name as the album, the five minute long introductory track immediately got me in the mood of the rest of the album. It was moody and mysterious, a vibration I so often receive from the Killers, but it had a certain groove about it too, with a bassline you cannot resist.

Most all Killers songs feel this way, compiled with synthesiser keyboards, bass lines and lyrical melodies one cannot help but get down to. A lot of this is due to one man in particular, The Man, Brandon Flowers. While one may find him on late night television merely performing vocally, Flowers is actually behind a number of instruments that stick out in tracks. One of the tracks with the most layering to it is the next one up: The Man.

Track By Track

Though releasing earlier as a single, The Man has already taken the band’s number four most played track on Spotify, sitting among classics, When You Were Young, Somebody Told Me, and Mr. Brightside.

There is really no question as to why this song has gained so many listens in such a short amount of time. Whether it is how impressive Flowers’ vocal range is, the catchy lyrics and Bowie reference, it’s hard not to feel good after a listen, and especially hard to sit still during it.

Wonderful Wonderful is a very personal album, and fans are first introduced to that in The Man. The song itself is about Flowers’ trying not to get a big head after the Killers first went big with their breakout album Hot Fuss in 2004. Flowers also first touches on his religious beliefs as a devout Mormon in this track, stating, “Right hand to God, First in command, My testimony, When I take the stand,” in the bridge.

4 THE KILLERS

tion process, in which acts can perform any selection they desire,

editor in chief

WSARA g

By KASSIDY WHEELER

LENDING A HELPING PAW “Although it is a federal crime to pass off a domestic animal as service, it has grown in popularity over the past few years, according to NBC News.”

OPINION

SARA WINDOM AND AUDREY FOWLER

Service dogs are crucial to everyday lives of those with physical and psychiatric impairments, but many people take advantage.

These individually trained dogs know their owners’ disabilities and how to help them in times of need and suffering. The good they can do is much greater than the bad, making life easier and safer.

Service dogs are well trained to help perform life tasks for those with impairments. They are also trained in warning their owner of an oncoming situation such as seizures.

In order for one to be eligible for a service dog, a patient should be unable to perform at least one life activity including eating, drinking and going to the bathroom.

However, it has proven very easy to “fake it.”

A quick click online, and any person is able to purchase a dog vest with SERVICE printed on the sides. Although it is a federal crime to pass off a domestic animal as service, it has grown in popularity

over the past few years, according to NBC News. This increase could be due to the fact that citizens in need of service due to any disability are not required and cannot be forced to provide paperwork proving that they are disabled.

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, service dogs and their owners have certain rights in public places. These rights protect disabled people, allowing them to keep their dog with them in most scenarios. Staff of any public

4LAUREN HAGGAR

establishment are only allowed to ask two questions: ‘Is the service dog required because of a disability?’ and ‘What work is the animal trained to do?’

Even when vests are acquired legally, many abuse the looseness of the registration process. According to the National Service Animal Registry, a letter from a doctor is not required to claim a service dog, and everything from alcoholism to anxiety counts as a disability.

Although one may wish their furry friend could accompany them on trips to the grocery, and nights out at restaurants, obtaining illegal vests and other means of service dog attire or achieving a service dog license when it is unnecessary simply because a person knows they will not get caught is immoral.

Rather than going to all this trouble bending around or breaking the law altogether, service dogs and their owners should be respected, and the registration process should only be utilized when necessary.

DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP ACADEMY Vegas massacre stirs NEWS

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

The next tracks including the ballad Rut and Tyson Vs. Douglass deal with other personal topics Flowers has faced recently, including his wife’s ongoing battle with severe PTSD and realizing his childhood hero, Mike Tyson, was defeatable.

It is refreshing to hear of the trying times Flowers has faced, as it is not often one gets to feel like they are going through the same things, that they are on the same level as their idols.

Lost IDentity

OCTOBER 20,

From tragedy to controversy...

“The minority of students who do abuse social media w

gun control debate

anything through a handful of lessons, and even if the With implementation of harsher ID WINDOM and KIERA RILEY editors in chief regulations, students andsuccess faculty hypothetical ofBy SARA this program is impossible to m KATELYN REINHART clash over the newest policy.

Following the deadliest mass shooting in modern American history, for OPINION

g

Arizona representative Gabrielle Giffords and her husband, Captain Mark K speak out against dent currentcan gun control Technicolor photos flow steadily sible to erase completely. This conmedia may seem like a daunting learnpolicy. in five advisory lesno While most other states require concealed carry with a permit, in Arizona, a through a phone screen, the refleccept is an easy one to grasp, espeand even alien system. one Parents sons, which is athe amount ofconcealed time witho to 21 years of age or older may carry weapon openly or Apart from the excellent musical and lyrical content of Wonderful license.victive Each screen a pair of cially because it has been preached may imagine their child falling students will spend on Digital re Wonderful, the album is also organized outstandingly. songilluminating is Giffords, a long term gun owner, was the victim of a violent mass shootin young asand they scroll through to high school students their whole tim to dark web predators,Tucson sending Citizenship Academy through the as in 2011. What was intended to be a community outreach event left 6 p ordered so well. After three upbeat selections, like Run foreyes Cover ple dead and 13 injured.

The Digital Citizenship lives by their parents. The horror scandalous pictures of themselves school year. Even if the informath Life to Come is slow down, tearjerker Some Kind Instagram. of Love.

Suffering from a shot to the head from point blank range, Giffords underw Academy stories are endless. to strangers, and ruining their reption is new to students, it does not pr extensive surgery and later fell into a medically induced coma. She recove With a riff as big as its message, the final jam on this albumisisa program that aims to awareness Students being harassed online, utations online. offer leave a gun ina with brain damage and hasenough since made itcontent her mission to to speak out against probably the most unexpected. Second to last onbring the record, The to students about

By SARA WINDOM g editor in chief lence alongside her husband, forming the organization, Americans for Respons the dangers of social media, but its missing out on job opportunities These fears are valid, and there lasting impression. stu Calling starts out with an excerpt from the New Testament, specifiSolutions. execution falls flat because of its becauseBYof a questionable post have certainlySTUbeen instances of after theThe minority of students whoto action, s ADMINISTRATION IMPLEMENTING A STRICTER Only hours Las Vegas shooting, Giffords called Congress cally Matthew 9:11. As previously mentioned, Flowers is a devout dent identification card policy in the currentthese school year, students who throughout ing, “The nation is on you. ” Kelly also brought up solutions failure to teach students anything on Facebook, colleges rejecting tragic acts the docounting abuse social media will not includ pr Mormon, and he flaunts it under your nose throughout this album. cannot provide an ID when asked face consequences. stronger background checks and tighter restrictions on assault weapons. new. applicants after a aquick years.

However, modernTheteenthrough a Citizens hand-look to exb “I came from school inglance Coloradoat that didn’t require IDs becausethe it discussion learn exists on anything both a state and national level.

The scripture itself stands out, but the biblical references do not was such a small Starting school,” saidoff Hailey Johnson, a freshman, “and then I legislators and leadersand for the next steps.

Nearly everyone that is in high their social media. the ager has navigated socialtheirmedia fultheofnation's lessons, even if they did, de stop when the gnarly guitar line kicks in. There are so many Latter came here and I had no idea what we were doing with IDs, so I left it at “Trump says he supports the second amendment right so I think he’s goin school right now will use some Digital home Citizenship pro- lunchand technology their whole life. theto restrict hypothetical success of this be every single Academy day and got so many detentions. ” do as little as possible gun rights,” said Robert Griffith, a senior and Day Saints references within this single song that I almost find a new The current school policy regarding identification is that it must be enthusiast. form of social media, and they gram with an hour long presentaOn the contrary, to many parents, program is impossible to measure. saw one upon each listen. One may grow tired hearing of the religious visible on a students’ body. In a pocket or wrapped around a backpack have dealt with both the pros and tion onisinformation that is already social media is a relatively new and FAILS If the goal of the program was to les LEGISLATION not permitted. In addition to this, if a student is unable to show an ID beliefs Flowers personally values, however, I like to look at it as a In the past, legislation to go through following shootingsbe such astal Sa into by class,the they majormust purchasepotentially a new one in the library cons of technology for as long as knownupon andwalking heeded dangerous addition. lessenfailed cyberbullying, it would secret he was willing to share with his listeners-- all you have to do is Hook and Pulse Night Club. Though many are pushing for reform, Molly Gum before being allowed entrance. Besides the $5 fee, the office adds a referthey have had a smartphone. For ity of students made the intentions While being aware of government risks of teacher, easier to determine the success gra remains unfaithful that much ral to their record. look for it. many students, the consequences of the program clear: to give adults is I got importantwill knowlrate of the program. However, the fac be able to pass.

“I got punished because I didn’t have my IDsocial five daysmedia in a row, so “It would be very messy and would take a very lunch detention twice. And then here I had to pay $10 for two new IDs. I of social media are obvious; once a involved peace of mind. edge to have, there is a very limmain message of the assembly was do long time. It’s sad, because even basic reforms that have four now. I forgot my ID today. It’s hard adjusting to bringing somepicture is online, it is nearly imposTo older sociala freshman. ited amount of information a stu-of American an overwhelming plea for students stu 90 percent people support, Congress thing everygenerations, single day,” said Jo Breese, Wonderful Wonderful is one of the best albums released in 2017, still won’t do anything about because they think In previous years, students who found they had misplaced their cards politically it could hurt them. So instead of doing for the day could visit the front office and get a temporary sticker. While and really, it is no wonder at all, as it was overseen by Jacknife Lee, what the citizens want, they’re doing what the peothis did encourage students to turn themselves in, the numbers soared the producer of the Cars, R.E.M, U2 and Snow Patrol. ple who fund their campaigns want,” said Gum. so high that the school could not keep up.

Party lines are also playing into the debate swirl“On average, we were probably giving around 90 to 100 stickers a day.

Currently touring the album, the Killers will be visiting Phoenix’s ing around gun control, but there is some element of So we were constantly reordering new stickers to accommodate stuLost Lake music festival on Oct. 21. Wonderful Wonderful is available compromise dents that came to campus without their ID,” said Aaron Pettinato, Dean of Students. “It seemed like we were enabling the problem. This year, we for streaming, purchase and download on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, MOST SUPPORT SOME CHANGE. tried that for a week and decided as an admin team that we would not Target, Zia Records and countless other websites and storefronts.

According to a new study put out by CNN, 89 perbe buying any more stickers.” cent of Republicans and Democrats support preventAfter being warned twice and gaining two referrals, if the problem ing the mentally ill from owning guns. The study persists, a student can face lunch detention and in serious cases, suspenalso stated that 77 percent of Republicans and 90 sion. percent of Democrats support background checks at “If you get a detention, it’s not about the ID anymore, it's about being editor in chief private sales and gun shows. disrespectful of the school rules. I don’t understand why kids are taking Despite this study, opinions among students remain divided following the m it to that point. It’s really just about making this campus more safe and shooting in Las Vegas. secure,” said Pettinato.

“I don’t think there is a way to resolve a mass shooting. That’s like getting While the 90 students acquiring temporary stickers daily last year someone’s head and making them stop doing something, it’s not expected, it has concluded altogether, the library still sees nearly 30 students a day happens,” said Ryan McQuiston, a senior and gun owner. purchasing new identification cards.

Abby Kitnick, a senior and gun control advocate, felt differently.

“I expected to have a big curve and then it’d come down, but it’s not “I think there should be a limit on the amount of weapons you should have happening,” said Ray Flamm, a librarian that oversees printing the the magnitude of those weapons. You don’t need military grade weapons. Peo replacement cards. “I’ve been doing 30 to 40 cards a day some days.” say they need it to protect themselves from an intruder but a handgun can do Faces do typically vary, but Flamm knows many frequent visitors that,” said Kitnick. by name now. However, he joked, he has not memorized their student A nationwide brainstorm of solutions result in two sides of the spectrum. O numbers yet. side pushes for the strict regulation of firearms while the other believes in mak guns more prevalent.

“Regulate them [guns] just as you would regulate cars. You have to go thro registration and insurance type things. And make it less accessible based on so you can’t buy guns when you’re younger,” said Olivia Persyn, a senior and VISIBLE OR NOT VIABLE students must have their control advocate, “I think when you add more guns to the situation it’s just ID visible on their body. Unlike last year, IDs are no longer fighting fire with fire.” allowed to stay in pockets, wallets, and backpacks.

In the following weeks, citizens expect to see talks in Congress about the 4 SARA WINDOM control issue.

Organization

“According to new study pu out by CNN, 89 percent of Republicans and Democra support preventing th mentally ill from owning guns.”

Overall

Sara Windom

BLADE RUNNER: 2049

and developed for its time. The sequel pays homage to its predecessor, having the same futuristic and advanced atmosphere that is created down

able to make it to the Semi-Finals, and hope to rank similarly again.

In 1967, Robert Richardson was driving Toledo, and each roundin they get a certain Ohio and he claims amount of points. The band and solo collided with a UFO. When he crashed the artist withwith the highest scoreobject receives it vanished into t the main prize. Every year we try to although, a small lump of metal remained from the UFO and he took i Opportunites open up focus on finding the best artists so ups have yes, every yearconfronted we become more with him. One Past-year weekrunner later Richardson was by two men in bla received everything from the openselective on who gets to be a part of who asked toinghave the piece of metal he collected from the UFO. He clai slot for international acts like the competition,” said Spencer.

Social Distortion to singing the Acts that do make it to the final already gave the metal to authorities, but the two national anthem and performing a round of the competition professionHomestretch performs set at Cardinal Stadium.

To get to ally record their Christmas songs for Richardson’s Drama black persisted and threatened wifC their ann Among the participants this year that point, artists must go through a the annual Proof is in the Pudding Governm Another instance of men in black appeari is the familiar face of senior Chance series of different styles of competicompilation CD.

by Nikola McLaughlin, playing in country band tions, all determined by a changing The contest has been ongoing the Fine in 1968 when UFO researcher Jack Robinson Homestretch. panel of judges. since Sept. 16, and while sign ups 26-28 “I’ve been participating for two “I don't think it [Homestretch’s for the competition have closed, rienced strange events while investigatin years now. The guitarist in my band musical style] puts us at an advanthose who still wish to be involved had convinced me to do it and we tage or a disadvantage. I think the through volunteering can do so by appearances.

He came home to find his apa sort of made the band last minute,” judges are purely about talent, not calling the Solid Rock office at 602rummaged through.

His wife noticed a ma said McLaughlin. the type of music,” said Spencer 522-9200 or visiting www.alicecooIn his first year of singing Byrne, sophomore and drummer of black suitpersolidrock.com. and hat staring up at them from the and playing guitar for the act, Homestretch.

McLaughlin and his bandmates were After making it through the audi- stairwell. ment Sara Windom

6 ■ OCTOBER 20, 2017 OPINION

OLIVIA STICKEL REVIEWS

A pair of academy award nominations and 35 years later, the groundbreaking science fiction staple Blade Runner

“My goals are to simply have fun and just to see how far we can get.

I'm not as so, ‘in-it to win-it,’ but I definitely would like for us to go far,” said McLaughlin.

Many of the nearly 300 yearly participants hope to get far in the competition, as they find the rewards hard to pass up. Besides the opportunity to open for Cooper, the first prize soloist takes home $500, the top ranking band $1,000. Musicians that do not place will still receive hundreds of prizes, many of which include gigs and attendance to other musical events.

6

spotlight Wonderful Wonderful, the first album released by the Killers in nearly five years lives up to its name.

D

UBBED the MEN IN BLACK, a secret organizati are supposed to supervise extraterrestrial lifeforms on ea bands must perform a cover song.

Once making it through that cat-out of a movie in 199 seen as a fictitious idea which came egory, an original song is perever, the men in black have been spotted long before the formed, leading up to an original and a cover. If acts make it through ever came out. all three of these rounds, they must

ERFORMING covers, Christmas, and original music, young adult soloists and bands compete for the chance to perform alongside Alice Cooper in the annual Proof is in the Pudding contest.

Putting on the competition for 13 years is Christian organization Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock, who aims to give troubled teens a place to go while teaching artistic mediums.

“Alice Cooper's teen center offers music, art, dance lessons and other programs to teenagers, all for free. We also offer free live audio and lighting classes, and during Proof many of the teens that take those classes will help with production,” said Randy Spencer, Consultant and Community Partnerships leader.

then prepare aof Christmas songlife of There have been multiple reports real encounters wit their choice. Judges determine who ple who wear black suits andmakes supposedly work for secret g it through based on a few categories. ment agencies who have jobs select to protect the public’s interests “We have categories such as uniqueness, performance, and UFO activity. vocal ability. We have four rounds

By SARA WINDOM g editor in chief

WHAT’S INSIDE

2

P

This is one of the most common theories, many thinking Ramsey died after a fit of rage from her mother upon discovering the child had wet the bed yet again. Another reason Patsy Ramsey is suspected is due to a ransom note found at the crime scene, which was later proven to be done on stationary with a pen from inside the Ramsey home.

Besides the mother, the brother and father of JonBenet Ramsey are also suspects.

Many others choose to believe the alternative—Ramsey was actually kidnapped and killed in her own home by the intruder.

Besides immediate family, housekeeper Linda Hoffman-Pugh, yearly Santa Claus costumist Bill McReynolds, a registered sex offender in the area, Gary Oliva, electrician Ollie Gray who was involved in a property dispute with the family, and school teacher John Mark Karr have also been considered involved.

school rank drops

Club members also meet every Thursday working with horses, I decided to do it” said at Scottsdale Saddle Club to discuss compeBech.

Students share their passion for horses titions and talk about their visions for the They discuss their goals and the steps with the new Equestrian Club which meets club’s future, in addition to their weekly they need to take to achieve it. One comevery Thursday at lunch. lunch meetings. mon goal they have is to try to expand the This new group allows students to dis“There are a lot of career options for community and educate more people about cover and grow their love for horses. The horses and I want to make them aware horses. club is trying to expand the horse commuthese opportunities,” said Tina Bech, club As the club of nine members works nity at Cactus Shadows, allowing people of adviser. towards reaching their goals of expanding, all skill levels to join.

During some meetings they have guest they do not want to get too big.

By AUDREY FOWLER g staff writer “We have people who are beginners and speakers talk to them about equestrian “Ideally the club would have 10 to 15 peowe have people who are more experienced careers, making them more knowledgeable ple, making it easier to meet and safer to riders,” said Hailey Johnson, a freshman and on horses and how they can pursue their compete, but of course anyone who wants club member. passion. to join can,” said Bech.

Students do not need to own a horse to The Equestrian Club was created because The club is about more than just horses 4 SARA WINDOM join, as member Madison Jacoby rents out there was a lot of interest from students. though, as they do perform community outBy SARA WINDOM editors an in chief grade now based on student her horses to members who need one.

Fortunately forand theKIERA club,RILEY thereg was advireach and try to is give back to local organi-AZMerit performance, which could be detrimental to schools “There are goals that still need to be sor available with horse experience. zations. with low achieving students. Because it is illeof aa student decreaseapproach in Arizona’s stan- advisachieved but we are trying to bring more ecause “I had me about gal for academic institutions within Arizona to dardized scores changes in people out and ride horses,” said Jacoby. ing thistesting club, and sinceand I have a background require a certain score in order to graduate, or use the statewide academic ranking system, the standardized test as a class grade, many stuthe Arizona Board of Education dropped dents are not driven to rank proficiently.

Cactus Shadows’ rank from an A to a B. According to Arizona Central, “One of the conTHE OCTOBER 20, 2017 ISSUE 68 percent of high school stucerns I do have is that dents taking the AZMerit so many of our stuIMPROVISED ranked below proficient on the dents, because Arizona The Jokers Improv Troupe exam. At Cactus Shadows alone, Merit is not a graduakicks off the year with a a large percentage of students tion requirement, did not take it sold out show . Maja Peirce fell below the proficiency marseriously and that hurt us. Had all explores the inner workings of the comedy crew, talking gin. of our students taken it seriously to the club’s captains on “I know the quality of eduand done the best they could, I the team requirements, the cation we provide at Cactus don’t think we’d be a B school newest members, and future Shadows, I know the quality today,” said Steven Bebee, princishows. of students we have at Cactus pal.

Shadows and I don’t think our Schools across Maricopa county Arizona merit scores from last experienced similar drops. This HORSING AROUND year even remotely reflected the is being widely attributed to the The Equestrian Club, one intelligence of our student body change in academic ranking. The of the newest clubs on and the education we do here,” State Board of Education passed campus, aims to educate students on horsemanship, said Bebee. new legislation regarding the explore equestrian career Students’ scores statewide grading rubric in late September, opportunities, and compete in dropped around five percent following a three year hiatus. shows across the valley. from the previous year. After They did not grade schools for such a decrease, many predict AT SPUR CROSS HORSE STABLES, many dif- the three years due to the impleferent of horses are used for trail rides. Trail mentation of the AZMerit stanthat the Board of Education TObreeds STATE rides range anywhere from one to four hours long, dardized test, which replaced the will eventually require Arizona Placing in the top half of teams Steven Bebee, principal. and at allsectionals, levels of the experience are welcome. varsity Merit to pass a class or graduate, AIMS test in 2014. cross country team qualifies 4 LAUREN HAGGAR The biggest change is in how ensuring that schools’ perforfor state. Faith Hasher talks mances are measured accurately. they weighted the different cattraining, tradition, and what it egories. 30 percent of a school’s takes to get to the top.

By AVIANNA HOPPES g staff writer

By SEAN GANNON g t

family was involved, accidentally killing the child and staging a crime scene in their basement where they would “first find her.”

With a change in the statewide academic rubric for measuring growth, Cactus Shadows’...

Mu prov met com

Vice President Aaron Burr, was on board the Patriot, a passenger ship, appeared on Dec. 30 and was never heard from again.

The long history of disappearances in the Bermuda Triangle continues to this day. In fact, on Oct. 1, 2015, the SS El Faro, a United States flagged cargo ship, was sailing from Jacksonville to Puerto Rico when Tropical Storm Joaquin was upgraded to a category four hurricane. At 7:39 a.m. all radio contact with the El Faro and all 33 crew members went missing, only one body was recovered a too decomposed to identify according to the Coast Guard. Wreckage o Faro was found three miles below the sea in late Oct. 2015.

Then on the crystal clear day of May 15, 2017, a Mitsubishi twin-eng vate aircraft was flying from Puerto Rico to Southern Florida when it su dropped off of radar at an air traffic control tower in Miami. The four gers, Jennifer Blumin, her two sons, and her husband, Nathan Ulrich, missing.

JONBENET RAMSEY case,

4 ■ OCTOBER 20, 2017

“I think that in the future for freshmen, that administrators might tell teachers that they have to start giving AZmerit as a grade.

I feel like standardized testing isn’t necessarily the best way to judge someone’s academic abilities, and now I feel like they are going to put more emphasis on it,” said Drew Ballard, a senior.

School boards across the state claimed the new ranking system is over reliant on standardized testing scores. Both students and administrators foresee possible consequences of the newest system.

g

and disappearances have occurred in this area eve Christopher Columbusspotlight traveled through in 1492.

In 1812, the first documented disappearance in this area oc off the coast of South Carolina. Theodosia Burr Alston, the dau

HOUGH it has

THE

Rank Drop from page 1

M

Weisner was killed, some say by the Apache, others say by Waltz out of greed. Waltz then left to go to Phoenix out of bad health. He died 20 years later in the house of Julia Thomas, who he made a deathbed confession to regarding the mine.

Many maps of the region have floated around, but anyone who attempts to find the gold is said to experience a major disaster or to be killed within the mountains.

Gosling's counterpart and holographic partner Joi, played by Ana de Armas, is a crucial part of the character development of Gosling, and

this film is a beast, closing in at a runtime of 164 minutes. It is not Lord of The Rings, but feels long compared to others. Besides the movie’s 2

Cave Creek’s barbecue hot spots are p

4 Catch Them All

A closer look at fishing spots aroun

usicians ve their ettle in mpetition

TAKING A LAP, a stuffed bear sits driver’s side

during cars and coffee. See the story on page 12.

4 KATELYN REINHART

TRAVEL

inside INTRIGUE this month

5

¡Celebrar!

Learn more about Dia de L SPOTLIGHT

7 Wonderful, Wo

Five years in the mak

8 Dancing the

Find out if school d

8 Humans of

Get to know the s TRENDING NOW

9

SPENCER BYRNE, a sophomore, looks into the crowd as his band plays in the quarter finals of Proof is in the Pudding

Contem

Highlighting exh rary Art.

4 SEAN GANNON

STYLE

10 Creating

Ideas for last m

11 Seasona

Try the hottest f

THE

11

Beauty E

Hair and makeu TECH

12 Caffiene a

Every month, car f

SHINING BRIGHT, James Osolnick, a sophomore,

Club presents nual fall play. The ment Inspector written ai Gogol. Shows are in Arts Center from Oct.

gazes in the popular light exhibit, Ocean of Light. See the story on page 9. 4 SARA WINDOM

With a change in the statewide academic rubric for measuring growth, Cactus Shadows’...

PRESS

school rank drops

The newspaper of Cactus Shadows High School in Cave Creek, Arizona

A WINDOM

OCTOBER intrigue

contributing to

INTRIGUE Olivia Stickel is a senior and two year editor, this year taking on Features. In her spare time, Stickel runs Fashion Club and watches movies. This month, she reviews Blade Runner: 2049.

2

4 SARA WINDOM

By SARA WINDOM and KIERA RILEY g editors in chief

ecause of a decrease in Arizona’s standardized testing scores and changes in the statewide academic ranking system, the Arizona Board of Education dropped Cactus Shadows’ rank from an A to a B. “One of the concerns I do have is that so many of our students, because Arizona Merit is not a graduation requirement, did not take it seriously and that hurt us. Had all of our students taken it seriously and done the best they could, I don’t think we’d be a B school today,” said Steven Bebee, principal.

Schools across Maricopa county experienced similar drops. This is being widely attributed to the change in academic ranking. The State Board of Education passed new legislation regarding the grading rubric in late September, following a three year hiatus.

They did not grade schools for the three years due to the implementation of the AZMerit standardized test, which replaced the AIMS test in 2014.

The biggest change is in how they weighted the different categories. 30 percent of a school’s

WHAT’S INSIDE THE OCTOBER 20, 2017 ISSUE

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IMPROVISED

grade is now based on student AZMerit performance, which could be detrimental to schools with low achieving students. Because it is illegal for academic institutions within Arizona to require a certain score in order to graduate, or use the standardized test as a class grade, many students are not driven to rank proficiently.

According to Arizona Central, 68 percent of high school students taking the AZMerit ranked below proficient on the exam. At Cactus Shadows alone, a large percentage of students fell below the proficiency margin.

“I know the quality of education we provide at Cactus Shadows, I know the quality of students we have at Cactus Shadows and I don’t think our Arizona merit scores from last year even remotely reflected the spotlight intelligence of our student body and the education we do here,” said Bebee.

Students’ scores statewide dropped around five percent from the previous year. After such a decrease, many predict that the Board of Education will eventually require Arizona Steven Bebee, principal.

Merit to pass a class or graduate, ensuring that schools’ performances are measured accurately.

““I know the quality of education we provide at Cactus Shadows, I know the quality of students we have at Cactus Shadows and I don’t think our Arizona merit scores from last year even remotely reflected the intelligence of our student body and the education we do here.”

The Jokers Improv Troupe kicks off the year with a sold out show . Maja Peirce explores the inner workings of the comedy crew, talking to the club’s captains on the team requirements, the newest members, and future shows.

HORSING AROUND The Equestrian Club, one of the newest clubs on campus, aims to educate students on horsemanship, explore equestrian career opportunities, and compete in shows across the valley.

TO STATE Placing in the top half of teams at sectionals, the varsity cross country team qualifies for state. Faith Hasher talks training, tradition, and what it takes to get to the top.

Musicians prove their mettle in competition

See Rank Drop on page 4

SPENCER BYRNE, a sophomore, looks into the crowd as his band plays in the quarter finals of Proof is in the Pudding

4 SEAN GANNON

P

ERFORMING covers, Christmas, and original music, young adult soloists and bands compete for the chance to perform alongside Alice Cooper in the annual Proof is in the Pudding contest.

Putting on the competition for 13 years is Christian organization Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock, who aims to give troubled teens a place to go while teaching artistic mediums.

“Alice Cooper's teen center offers music, art, dance lessons and other programs to teenagers, all for free. We also offer free live audio and lighting classes, and during Proof many of the teens that take those classes will help with production,” said Randy Spencer, Consultant and Community Partnerships leader.

Homestretch performs

Among the participants this year is the familiar face of senior Chance McLaughlin, playing in country band Homestretch.

“I’ve been participating for two years now. The guitarist in my band had convinced me to do it and we sort of made the band last minute,” said McLaughlin.

In his first year of singing and playing guitar for the act, McLaughlin and his bandmates were able to make it to the Semi-Finals, and hope to rank similarly again.

6

“My goals are to simply have fun and just to see how far we can get.

I'm not as so, ‘in-it to win-it,’ but I definitely would like for us to go far,” said McLaughlin.

Many of the nearly 300 yearly participants hope to get far in the competition, as they find the rewards hard to pass up. Besides the opportunity to open for Cooper, the first prize soloist takes home $500, the top ranking band $1,000. Musicians that do not place will still receive hundreds of prizes, many of which include gigs and attendance to other musical events.

Opportunites open up

Past-year runner ups have received everything from the opening slot for international acts like Social Distortion to singing the national anthem and performing a set at Cardinal Stadium. To get to that point, artists must go through a series of different styles of competitions, all determined by a changing panel of judges.

“I don't think it [Homestretch’s musical style] puts us at an advantage or a disadvantage. I think the judges are purely about talent, not the type of music,” said Spencer Byrne, sophomore and drummer of Homestretch.

After making it through the audition process, in which acts can perform any selection they desire,

bands must perform a cover song.

Once making it through that category, an original song is performed, leading up to an original and a cover. If acts make it through all three of these rounds, they must then prepare a Christmas song of their choice. Judges determine who makes it through based on a few select categories.

“We have categories such as uniqueness, performance, and vocal ability. We have four rounds and each round they get a certain amount of points. The band and solo artist with the highest score receives the main prize. Every year we try to focus on finding the best artists so yes, every year we become more selective on who gets to be a part of the competition,” said Spencer.

Acts that do make it to the final round of the competition professionally record their Christmas songs for the annual Proof is in the Pudding compilation CD. The contest has been ongoing since Sept. 16, and while sign ups for the competition have closed, those who still wish to be involved through volunteering can do so by calling the Solid Rock office at 602522-9200 or visiting www.alicecoopersolidrock.com.

Sara Windom editor in chief

Drama Club presents their annual fall play. The Government Inspector written

by Nikolai Gogol. Shows are in the Fine Arts Center from Oct. 26-28

WSARA WINDOM OCTOBER intrigue

ws, and information. Hearts drop and an overwhelming sense es each and every person in the room, the feeling is heavy. mation floods in, they announce the death toll, the names of the ments of their relatives. Memorials are made, candle lit vigils ng commences around the country. Thoughts and prayers are media. drill all too well. This narrative fits more than five situations rs. Mass shootings are a concept we have become incredibly the question still persists, “What could we have done to prey there is an obvious answer: gun control. ntries around the world have found effective and safe policies gun violence. The United States is obviously not one of them. grappling with gun deaths on such a ere are a few things people should t the gun control debate. ng to take your guns. The idea of gle firearm in the United States is onstitutional. It is true that many gree with the use of guns or wish nned, but the bill of rights specifimpossible.

Americans just want guns in the people want stronger background checks, nd strict laws on use. nto the strength of weapons. The reasons ons varies. Some own a gun because they themselves. Others use guns for target , or skeet shooting. All of these do not ully-automatic weapons. or mass shootings in the past 10 years with semi or fully-automatic weapons. n any American should own a weapon n mass number. uns don’t kill people, people kill people” nanimate objects, obviously do not possess But when said gun is bought or accessed by people with meninal records, or a severe lack of training, the statement easily don’t kill people, weak gun control policies kill people.” ould not be a bipartisan issue. It is a matter of human lives, not The solution lies in the middle ground. survey done by Quinnipac University, 98 percent of demo93 percent of republican voters support background checks.

Pew Research Center states that 89 percent of both republican oters support preventing the mentally ill from buying a gun. he proposed gun control legislation should appeal to pacifists We should be able to reach a compromise while holding vary-

ple to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

Citizens of the United States are granted the right to keep and bear arms under the second amendment to the Constitution. This was done in order LILY CRISTANTE, a senior, stands to ensure the safety of the American people. in the middle of winter trees in Spur According to the Crime Research Prevention Center, 98.4 percent of Cross. all mass shootings since 1950 occurred in areas that are marked as gun4 GRACE HAYCRAFT-MCKEE free zones and 96.2 percent of all mass public school shootings occurred in gun-free zones. This proves that most mass murders target places that THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS they know people will not be carrying firearms (schools, airports, OLIVIA STICKEL, a senior, poses outside of an bars, etc.), making places Phoenix. much easart shopthese in Downtown ier targets. 4 100ZOIE percent of those shootings LAMBESIS were stopped with none other than firearms.

Take Chicago for example, this city has some of the strictest gun laws in the country but according to CNN, Chicago recently saw its most violent, crime-ridden year in over 20 years. In 2016, there were 3,550 shooting inciBy annie Sogaard staff writer dents and 4,331 shooting victims.

Many people call for stricter gun laws, more gun control, and some Digital Journalism, a new class on campus, even advocate for the repeal of the second amendment but they do not enters its first year as a branch of the CTE program. The course is designed for students who realize that the guns are not the problem. People are the problem. have interest in a contemporary and technolA fantastic example of this is the number of deaths caused by car acciogy-centric form of journalism, and all the dents compared to the number of deaths caused by guns. In 2016, over things that encompass it. Students who are 40,000 people in the U.S. were killed in motor vehicle accidents. 15,079 enrolled in Digital Journalism have the opportunity to build on a wide variety of new skills people were killed by firearms in 2016. Of that figure, 2,200 people were and employ them in producing content for the affected by the accidental discharge of a firearm. Motor vehicle accidents school’s web newspaper, CS Press Online. made up two percent of all deaths in 2016 while firearms made up less “You learn to figure out what is interesting to kids at the school and how to report it in a fair than one percent of all deaths. Firearm accidents did not even accumulate and ethical way,” said Lori Hart, digital journalto .001 percent of all deaths in 2016. So, I guess we might as well ban motor ism instructor. “The cool part now is that stuGUN VIOLENCE vehicles to prevent further accidents while we are trying to ban firearms. dents are doing so with this technology that we VICTIMS from the didn’t use before.”

A firearm in the right hands is much faster than dialing 9-1-1 in every In terms of the structure and organization 10 most deadly US single situation. In 2014, in a hospital near Philadelphia, Richard Plotts of the class, students are placed in six different mass shootings, shot and killed a psych worker that he was meeting with, then shot psyteams with tasks switching off weekly. They including Las Vegas, learn things like how to shoot and edit vidchiatrist Lee Silverman who was carrying a concealed firearm. Silverman Orlando, Sandy Hook, eos shot and wounded Plotts, stopping a potential mass shooting. Again infor video news broadcasts, make podcasts, and Virgina Tech, write in the journalistic style, or create info2015, an Uber driver with a concealed carry permit in Chicago successgraphics and polls. \SARA WINDOM fully stopped a mass shooting from happening by shooting and wounding “We get to do fun things you wouldn’t do in normal classes, like writing stories about popuEverardo Custodio after he had opened fire on a crowd of people. lar topics both at school and around the world,” Drug overdoses killed between 59,000 and 65,000 people in 2016, said Riley James, a sophomore in the class. which amounted to two percent of all deaths in the U.S. Substances such The rotation begins with writing news article with photos, then to writing opinion artias cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine are all illegal in the US but that has cles or reviews, doing “man on the street” internot stopped Americans from obtaining these killers. views or polls, video news broadcasts, the podThe solution to reducing violent crime is not to ban guns, but to encourcast, and a photo essay. Students are responsible for all of the content posted to the site. age American citizens to arm themselves and defend against these crimes.

TARA PRAGER, a senior,“The standing in front of a rustic hard part is keeping up with the deadDrawing a gun is faster than dialing 9-1-1. line because you only want to publish your shop in Fronteir Town. g

PORT CARD

intrigue NOVEMBER 2017

Military representatives recruit students on campus A = 7%

A = 30%

A = 3%

B = 3%

B = 17% C = 18% D= 50%

D=76% C= 26%

B = 33%

omecoming

news

Art classes travel to New digital DOWNTOWN journalism class Pumpkin PHOENIXFestival revives online newspaper

4 GRACE HAYCRAFT-MCKEE best work for each project,” said Blake Dorame,

poll of 111 students on 10/10/17

unique views. Not one trail has the same scenery as the other, which provides an array of choices when taking senior pictures.

Digital Citizenship

ID Policy

spotlight

a sophomore. “But my favorite thing is that we are always working on projects about topics we chose and have significance to us.”

Another trait unique to the Digital Journalism class as opposed to ‘regular’ courses is that students play a large part in what work they do for the class and what topics they enjoy.

“It’s hard to begin a story or to find a good topic that other people will be interested in,” said James, “but the easiest thing is when I do get to write about something I’m interested in; for example, we had to do a movie review, and I’m a huge movie fan and plan on being a director when I grow up.”

Like any new class, technical difficulties can and will occur. Students recently started updating the site daily and continue to learn from mistakes as they arise. But, with the site now posted to the school website and app, the pressure is on.

Cactus Shadows’ digital newspaper can be found at cactusshadowscspress.com and students interested in joining digital journalism in the future can see Lori Hart in room 609.

C

By Sara Windom g editor in chief

elebrating the third year of the

Fornow some fun and colorannual exhibit, art students from introductiondowntown to AP field tripped ful pictures, is the to the Carefree Enchanted Pumpkin Garden on Oct. 25. place to be. All over downtown “I thought it was cool that the guy was Phoenix, murals coversuper excited tothere share are his pumpkins with us and his passion ing for pumpkins, ” said Lauryn almost every street. Stornelli, A few a senior.

Upon arrival,even students were ableaccess, to sit down in a small buildings have roof group and learn from master carver Ray Villafane himwhichworking make as fora toy thesculptor perfectfor Warner Brothers, self. Once Villafane realized his opportunity to true get medium-the city inpumpkins. Having sculpted on the fruit for 22 years, as of now, Villafane the background . has carved on more than 2,500 pumpkins.

“I loved the fact that I was doing something no one had done before,” said Villafane during his discussion with the art students. Much of his talk was based on encouraging artists to think outside of the box and dare to be different because what matters is how it makes the artist feel. “The more I enjoyed it, somehow, the more the world enjoyed it.”

After his speech, the artist did a live pumpkin carving in which he displayed the technique he uses most frequently. After shaving down the pumpkin and beginning to carve basic detailing, he offered the students to try to carve an eye, nose, cheek, or any other facial feature they desired.

“It was wonderful because Ray is a sculptor and he invited us for the third year in a row. He loves kids and loves artists,” said Deborah Whales, an art teacher that went on the trip.

After the talk, students were encouraged For western shots, Frontier to walk around the garTown has it all. There are den and experience the exhibit for themmany locations that combine selves. Featuring difrustic objects and nature for ferent scenes inspired the perfect “Cave Creek”

by Villafane’s personal humor, picture. Many restaurants and some pumpkins were found in jail cells, shops contain scenery that in the hospital, or even has a western vibe. going for a swim in the Carefree fountain.

“I wanted to see the exhibit, I wanted to see the hanging pumpkins, I thought that was kind of scary for a kid exhibit,” said Stornelli.

After viewing the exhibit, many students to Villafane’s intent, found inspiration behind the carvings.

“I want to draw more pumpkins now,” said Emily Cabrera, a senior.

The 10 day tradition is organized by the Villafane Studios team, which consists of Villafane, and other carvers from around the world, Chris Vierra, Nikolay Torkhov, Sue Beatrice, Dean Arnold, and Dmitry Klimenko.

Sonoran Arts League, encouraging student artists in the community, is hosting the next art field trip to Hidden in the Hills, which will be occurring today.

FRONTIER TOWN Featuring different scenes inspired by Villafane’s personal humor, some pumpkins were found in jail cells, in the hospital, or even going for a swim in the Carefree fountain.

Things get strange: season 2 Millions of people across the globe have been waiting over a year for the epic sequel of Stranger Things, the hit TV series created by the Duffer Brothers. With questions that remain unanswered, these episodes go off with a bang.

WSARA WINDOM

With returning actors such as academy award winning actress Winona Ryder, the beloved David Harbour, and classic 80s parents also known as Cara Buono and Joe Chrest,the team is back for more action, peril, and soon to be classic one-liners.

Gaining four new characters, Stranger Things fans have met Max, Billy, Bob, and Dr. Owens., played

by Sadie Sink, Dacre Montgomery, Sean Astin, and Paul Reiser. Most of whom are lovable characters with smarts, sass, and wit, but people who watch the show will understand the bitterness some characters possess.

The setting takes place one year after the first season, right in time for Halloween. The boys, Mike, Dustin, Lucas, and Will are back in business,

or in other words, getting into trouble, fighting over a girl, and trying to save their hometown of Hawkins, Indiana.

Shortly after their ghostbuster Halloween, Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo) finds a creature in his trash can that suspiciously looks like the slug Will threw up the year before. Befriending it immediately and naming it Dart, he shows his friends as soon as possible, and does not want them taking his new friend away.

from the end of season one, and shows how Eleven’s powers have developed even further.

Although, while some fans were excited about the extra episode in this season, episode seven is mostly a filler episode, showing what Eleven does when she finds out the truth about her mom.

With the boys looking out for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder ridden Will, and paranoid Joyce back in session, this season is arguably up a new level from the first. Ending with yet another cliffhanger, some fans are left a bit unsatisfied, though not as much as the season prior. With the season three script already in the process, this season of Stranger Things mania is one for the scrapbooks.

Due to the long period of time it took for season two to finally appear, the media 4DUFFER BROTHERS predicts it will take the same In predictable circumstances, Dart amount of time, or longer until the next grows to an immense size and ends up season appears. Another season down, escaping their grasps. As Eleven, played the fans are predicting some major

by Millie Bobby Brown, yearns to see events that they believe will happen in Mike after being kept in captivity by season three. With a solid plot line and Hopper, she gets into some trouble. phenomenal acting from all, this season Relationships develop between the deserves a solid four out of five stars. older and younger groups, and the story plays out nicely. This season finally Morgan Reimer answers the questions fans have been staff writer waiting for, by incorporating flashbacks

THOR: RAGNAROK The newest installment in the Marvel movie franchise, Thor: Ragnarok, continues both the plot of Thor and the Avengers under the direction of actor-turned-director Taika Waititi.

Thor: Ragnarok takes place in between the timeframe of Captain America: Civil War and Spider-Man: Homecoming, although it is unclear exactly what year. A new villain named Hera, played by a dark Cate Blanchett, is not only the goddess of death, but also sister to Chris Hemsworth’s Thor, and is looking to destroy Asgard in the vein of her father Odin. Of course, Thor makes a plan to stop her, but gets lost along the way on a planet ruled by a man solely known as the Grandmaster, played by Jeff Goldblum. There, he runs into Mark Ruffalo’s character, the Hulk, who after a gruesome yet hilarious duel, teams up with him to defeat Hela.

Synopsis aside, the acting in the movie was nothing to be joked with, save the comic relief for the pun’s sake. Waititi did an amazing job with the cast and script; it seems like there is some curse around action movies where directors pay too much attention to the action and not enough to the dialogue itself, however Waititi and his team broke that stigma.

A truly great decision on the production’s part was bring-

intrigue NOVEMBER 2017

ing in Goldblum, who brings about a whole new dynamic of the movie through his dry humor; most of the laughter-inducing jokes throughout the film are straightforward. Not only that, but Blanchett digs deep into her villainous character and is a real competitor. The shining star in the film is undoubtedly Hemsworth himself, who, although playing a main character, does not let the audience get bored and makes watchers really root for him throughout his hardships.

Any Marvel fan can see that one thing lacking from the franchise’s movies are any character progression of Hulk, other than his learning of control and eventual self-exile through his mental instability and depression. Thor: Ragnarok finally closes that gap and gives the watcher an understanding of how the Hulk thinks, not just Bruce Banner. Some may see this as unnecessary, being that the Hulk’s character is subpar to the real identity of Banner, but it is an essential part to visualising the development of the character as a whole since the Hulk exists as equally as Banner.

Among the film are a couple recognizable mistakes that I do have to point out. The most noticeable of them are how much Thor’s vocabulary has changed--somehow his entire ancient diction has evolved into that of a common 21st century teenager.

I know that the scriptwriters did that in order to stay hip and perhaps keep up with Guardians of the Galaxy’s comedic success, but I always remember Thor’s comedic relief as laughing at the fact he did not understand such commonplace. Being that he has been on Earth for quite some time and has been around that language for a few years, I could understand how he could understand the sarcastic humor, but the multitude of trendy jokes he provides seem forced and unnecessary. It also felt as though Hela’s character was not progressed enough. She is a powerful force and had much overlooked potential. However, that may just be me, since I always feel like the villains are swept under the rug, I just wish the minds behind the movie would give us more insight to the evil mindset these characters contain.

No doubt Thor: Ragnarok’s positives outweigh the negative 10 times over. The film is gripping and exciting, and is a must see for any action movie fanatics or all moviegoers alike.

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generally all about the whole experience, which includes the music, atmosphere, people, art displays, and fashion. It is a place where people can express themselves freely and enjoy their time being at that location.

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

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

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

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

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

a trailer so we do the whole camping experience, which helps us save money because than we can bring our own food and drinks,” said Brittney Dodd, an english teacher 5 year attendee of Country Thunder.

Using public transportation and share riding apps, NOvEmbEr 17, 2017 ■ 3 one can get to and from the concert safely and inexpensively. Companies like Uber and Lyft will sometimes sponsor music festivals and give out discount codes.

Along with that is public transportation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zoie Lambesis Food Editor

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Sculpting SeSSion Children at

the enchanted pumpkin garden help Villafane carve a pumpkin at the annual festival. 4 sara windom

THE

PRESS

The newspaper of Cactus Shadows High School in Cave Creek, Arizona

CRASH Hopping on the band wagon COURSE

4 ■ NovembeR 17, 2017

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

blies, and their marching show.

“I feel more involved because we Marching their way back into Cactus have things that we can play and the Shadows, after a two year hiatus, is students can join in too and it’s just

By SARA WINDOM and KIERA RILEY g editors in chief the the school marching band. really fun to have people watch us hour.

The sanctioned speed limit was senior Connorthe Kevinper Brady, a music teacher who and was see 50. ourThis progress throughout THE NOVEMBER 17, 2017 ISSUE FTER a long and strenuous day watching the minutes Hanson’s two years ago, however is notaalone livhas taught in the nightmare Cave Creek school season, ” saidHanson Anika Arias, senior and tick by in class, he finally gets to hit the rink: an activity ingall out thisyears scenario. to LawCore,ofathe person is injured a district for four of hisAccording teacha member marching bandinwho FIELD TRIPPIN’ that he has been looking forward to all afternoon. ing career, carhas accident 14 seconds. helpedonce withevery the comeplays the flute.

Art students embarked on the Getting to feel the ice gliding beneath his skates felt the accident, I was left me out of driving for back of“After the marching band pro-in shock.

TheThis marching band has particithird annual field trip to the good, he was ecstatic just to be with his friends after the five months as I was scared everytime I got in a car.

Even today, I’m gram. Brady was able to step pated in a couple competitions, one Carefree Enchanted Pumpkin Garden. This installment, put span of the week. However, his carefree fun of the Friday afternoon always certain I’mofcareful road, the safestwas driver I in and take thethat place the on ofthe their firstbeing competitions on the on by renowned artist Ray would soon take a troublesome turn. can be,” said Hanson. former band teacher, Gerry weekend of October 14 and their next Villafane, colors outside of “See you later, Connor!” His friends declare as In response to a sharp rise in will fatalities, the Arizona Wykoff. competition on November 18. the lines by using pumpkins as a creative medium. they depart.

Department kind of Safety “Our (AZDPS) Operation No is “The opportunity firstlaunched competition of the year Returning a farewell to his friends, he digs Need Speed. of ell into mytolap.

I was going to be at Eastern Arizona College into his bag, awaiting the sound of keys jumbling Operation No Need to Speedand places more units in doing my thing at the elein Thatcher it’ll be mostly against mentary school and, cars when together. Finally, his fingers clasp around someother Divisionlike 4 schools small unmarked on major highways the 101,with 202, and BAND TOGETHER I found out programs under 60 pieces,pol” said thing cold-- metal.

303. Mr. The Wykoff project alsoband implements a “zero tolerance” Following a two year hiatus was retiring, I thought Brady.

“There they are,” he says to himself, yanking out icy, meaningback drivers are prohibited to go above the speed due to lack of participants, the marching band regroups and to college, my dream wascapacity. to Thethe marching competed the keys with a firm grasp. limit in any For next 30 band days, officers are in finds their groove. Maddie direct high school bands and to each the 1A and 2A speeding class andareceived Throwing his belongings into the backseat, he instructed to give person caught citation. a Howard talks what it took to teach cool, challenging, superior rating, outstanding percusignites the engine of his silver BMW, and pulls out Thisinteresting 30 day project, in partnership with the state, get back in formation. music,” said Brady. results from a $92,500sion, and outstanding auxilliary capof the now vacant parking lot. grant awarded to the AZDPS. With the marching band con- the tions.

On his usual route home, he dives into the left Usingonly the money, department plans to purchase 15 THE REAL COST sisting of 20 students this year, andradar instruments The students of the band lane, preparing to turn. As he checks all is clear, he Ultralyte speed and pay marching overtime for With college deadlines quickly had only 14 members year, there have zero period on every day and pracnotices the car in front of him begin to go, and folanlast increase in state troopers stationed highways. approaching, Audrey Fowler Arizona Department of Safety that are some hardships the band on Tuesdays 6 p.m until lows their lead.

According to the tice AZDPS site, “Thefrom overall goal is 8 examines how to get the most faces. p.m.of speeding-related crashes by Suddenly he finds himself colliding with to lower the number money from private and public institutions.

“Sound would be December the biggest31, issue “It’s awith littlefatalities hard to and balance school oncoming traffic. Unable to control his vehicle any 2018, along injuries. we face. Every person playsmoney their willand but this year not too bad further, his car glides along the lanes of Scottsdale The grant alsoband, enable troopers to it’s concentrate own part and they really need to be because my by classes are easythe and I feel road. their speed enforcement efforts increasing total MOVING UP independent like you just have plan educate out your Upon impact, his head slams against the driver’s side window, strong, leav- confident, number of and distracted driver citations/warnings and to help The hockey team moved musicians one personof is time,”driving. said Gaby ing him unconscious for the duration of the accident. thebecause public onifthe dangers distracted ” Arias, a senior and a from division III to division II. wrong thatThe entire part is wrong and clarinet player the marching As he begins to prod his eyes open, still entangled in the crumpled department enacted this new initiative inin response to a riseband. of Avianna Hoppes delves into it’shis pretty easy tocrashes hear if in there’s onlymonthBrady is confident that the marchthe challenges the team faces vehicle, he begins to notice his surroundings for the first time.

On fatal car the past and the past year.

According to GET IN FORMATION Jeremy jones, a freshin a more advanced league. one person playingwebsite, that part, said 962ing bandwere will grow years go on the AZDPS “in” 2016, people killedasinthe motor vehiman plays the trombone at a football game.left, Thea car in similar condition to his lays sedentary. Turning his throbBrady. cle crashes, 65 more than the year because middle school student bing head to the right, he notices two more, along with the automobefore, the representing a 7.3 percent band recently competed in a local competition The marching seem to have a good attitude toward bile of the initial aggressor. The man was going a speed of 75 miles increase.”band has been playand received the superior rating, outstanding See Crash on page 4 ing at certain events around school the marching bandCourse program. percussion, and oustanding auxilllary awards.

3

Zia Records goes ‘blind’

amount of clothing between recycling and social projects around the world. The recycling project that H&M has partnered with is the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel.

By MADDIE HOWARD g creeker editor

A

“In 2016, 962 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes, 65 more than the year before, representing a 7.3 percent increase.”

4

11

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4 MIA GILLING

that include football games, assem-

Crash Course from page 1 A majority of these crashes occurred on other roadways, like country roads or city streets.

This is seen on the local level. Recently, student car crashes occurred both on and off campus.

Marcus Watts, a junior, and a parent collided outside the west parking lot a few weeks ago. While this occurrence was not fatal, it caused substantial backup on Dove Valley road, blocking students from pulling into the west lot. Since the start of the school, some claim to see a rise in fender benders, putting most of the blame on the new parking lot system.

“I think the way they’re set up it makes sense in some part but it is also a very bad idea to have everybody coming through only one street because that is going to lead to people flying out of the parking lot,” said Watts, “with more cars, more collisions will happen.”

In previous years, a lot was dedicated entirely to seniors; juniors would either be assigned to fill in the extra spaces in the main parking area, or park in a lot on the other side of the campus. However, administration implemented a new policy this school year, in which all grade levels are able to park in whichever lot they choose.

Despite the change in the lots, car accidents on campus are nothing new. Some of the more serious incidents in the past

“You don’t only endanger yourself, you endanger everyone around you.

My parents always told me that you can’t rely on the other people around you because you never know what they’re going to do.”

include a student hitting another student with their car and a parent flipping their vehicle in the student parking lot.

School and state officials struggle to pin down the central cause of the rise in car crashes.

Many look to distracted or destructive driving like texting and abusing Jessica Menton, a sophomore. alcohol and illegal drugs.

According to AZDPS, impaired driving crashes account for about onethird of fatal collisions. Crashes involving impairment related to alcohol, illegal drugs or prescription medication killed 406 people and injured 4,089 in 2016. Because of this spike, schools aim to educate students about these dangers.

“You don’t only endanger yourself, you endanger everyone

around you. My parents always told me that you can’t rely on the other people around you because you never know what they’re going to do,” said Jessica Menton, a sophomore.

On campus, the health department used “drunk driving goggles” with classes to simulate the feeling of driving under the influence.

“I was trying to give them the idea of what it's like to go through daily tasks while being under the influence of alcohol and showing how it's impairing,” said Tandehl Collentine, health teacher.

This is the first year that health classes offer the drunk driving simulation in the curriculum. The new prevention coordinator, Diana Montano, made this possible. Montano also revived the school’s Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) program.

“I think that with having a prevention coordinator on campus we are going to see even more things brought to school for us to be able to use,” said Collentine.

Texting and driving also plays into the distracted driving epidemic. Arizona is one of four states that does not have specific laws regarding phone usage in vehicles. According to AT&T’s It Can Wait Campaign, states without statewide antitexting laws have a roughly 17 percent higher rate of texting while driving than the 46 states with bans. Arizona legislators have yet to take action in this area.

Maddie Howard

HUMANS OF CACTUS SHADOWS

creeker editor

DIGGING THROUGH CLOTHES, customers donate used goods to H&M to recieve coupons.

4 MIA GILLING

UPCYCLE OLD STYLE

A DIY denim jacket that’s perfect for cooler temperatures.

TO COLOGNE OR NOT TO COLOGNE

After two years of of sitting out, the band is finally large enough to march.

WHAT’S INSIDE

items, no matter the brand, and drop them off at “I think the standardization months in jail. any H&M location. To encourage consumers furabout girls being super tall and Before the law came a bill ther, H&M offers a 15 percent off coupon for their super skinny, like that outlook that Paris passed regarding next purchase if a customer donates their clothes on being a runway model, has the standard health conditions to this program. made girls feel insecure, so that one should be in in order “Since the program has an incentive for cusnow they’re putting in plus to be deemed healthy. This tomers to recycle clothing, I think it will have a size models, athletic models, was implemented in order to good outcome. The bigger the outcome, the bigger and shorter models into that prevent eating disorders and impact on the world,” said Torrey. industry to make girls feel betcreate a healthier fashion spotlight According to their website, “As much as 95 ter about themselves. Society industry. percent of clothes thrown away could have been puts out that generation so it New York did its best ever re-worn or recycled”. makes girls our age more comwith 26 plus-size model castH&M has collected over 40,000 pieces of clothfortable with themselves,” said ings this year. This is a siging since they brought this program to light.

Haley Sterba, a senior. nificant improvement from “Fabric can always be reused and with that, This year’s runway has Spring 2017’s 16 plus-size it could decrease the size of the landfills, not been the most diverse of its models, and a much larger For only $2, Zia Records offers a blind CD package CDs spilled out, including one that did not seem to at all locations. Recently, the ‘blind’ trend has hit haveNew madeYork it outshowing alive, with scrapes all over. by much, but by at least a little bit,” said Sasha kind, with amount compared to Europe. everything from books to movies to music.

Sypkens, a biology teacher. the most variety in models, Only two plus-size models With a team of two editors and myself, the CDs were What makes the package ‘blind’ is the fact that it is to inand entirety. this, we were all a bit H&M has three categories in which they orgaas welllistened as London ParisGoing into walked in Milan and Paris. covered in duct tape and shopping bags. Because unsure of what to expect, but the“The everpresent result nize the donated garment into: re-wear, recycle, expanding their diversificacharacter of people of its extensive layering, I found it hard to cut into, was: at least it was only $2. None of these were all and reuse.

The clothes in the re-wear category tion. is the important thing to us,” especially when making sure not to harm or scratch that spectacular, but the bar was not set very high to “New York was home to Gabbana said in an interview the discs. After breaking into the casing, 10 uncovered begin with. all five of the season’s most with Vogue. racially diverse shows. Rio Having an array of 120 Uribe sent 87 percent modmodels, the runway in Milan “I just applied for a job els of color down the runway showcased a plethora of nonat Burritoholics. My favorat Gypsy Sport. At Chromat, white models who flaunted ite burrito there is called the another longtime advocate of their various shapes, ages, and ‘Wakey Wakey,’ it’s eggs and inclusivity, 77 percent of modethnicities. potatoes and cheese all in a els were non-white, up from “I think a few people are SILVERTOWN: burrito; it’s fantastic. I wanted 65 percent the prior season,” responsible for the increase SALVATION: THE MEN THEY a job there because my girlaccording to the Fashion Spot in diversity on the runway: ALPHAVILLE: COULDN’T friends always buys the burRunway Diversity Report Fall obviously designers and the NAVIGATOR HANG ritos for us, so I want to be 2017. people produce and Thewho singer sounded likecast As I turned this CD off, able to buy the burritos.”

Even though six out of fashion shows have the final a U2-Morrissey-Sting Mia Gilling, style editor lovechild.

“Is this the ten of the New York Fashion say in which models are seen sighed and said, “Thank same band that does COOPER HEERMANS, a Gosh.” Silvertown was week's top models were modat certain events. However, I Forever Young?” said not much of a winner sophomore els of color, white models still think theRiley. real power is in the Kiera among our group. remain the most in demand consumer. When consumers out of all cities combined. demand diversity, the fash“Lit Mag is pretty HARRY CON“Although we do have more ion industry is obliged to give great, everyone there is NICK JR.: diversity on the runway, I it inFOUNTAINS order to continue makso supportive and I really ELEVEN hope to see more plus size ing OF money.

The more we as WAYNE feel included. I write models and models with disconsumers askwas foran diversity, Everybody was really This album song lyrics and poetry, into this one. Maybe abilities. Also, I hope to see theabsolute more wepleasure will seetoit,” said it was because of the I’m very into music. I play come across,fashion as this club models that are the same size Kelsey Garner, swing this jazz CD had is the same band with piano, ukulele, violin, and as normal person. To furadviser. to it, maybe because hits like Stacy’s Mom the dulcimer.” ther explain, most models are The thatItthe it reminded us of and more Hey Julie. wasnew genOregano’s. Either way, eration pushes for super skinny and really tall. I a throwback, butdiversity one this was a hit. worth listening to.more andwell body positivity, the hope to see models that accuthat the fashion industry will rately represent modern day FLEETWOOD JOE JACKstartSON’S projecting what they women,” said Allie Workman, MAC: PAPER audience wishes to see. The a senior and fashion club presDOLL JUMPIN’ JIVE EMMA ARIAS, a freshman fashion industry is just like ident.

Nobody minded Jazz always makes any other business In May 2017, Paris banned Fleetwood Mac, “I could the listener wantwith to supply and demand. underweight models by inipicture myself listening move and thisThe wasmore to it on a summer day no demand exception.

This people diversity, the tiating a law that, in order in the woods with my was another favorite “We’ve only been more that will be advertised. for models to be hired, they family, just chilling by among the group. friends for a few months; the lake, sipping some “This one sounds Maja Peirce staff writer I met her at Dairy Queen lemonade, cool breeze, less like Oreganos cloudless sky, there’s and more like you’re because we work together intrigue NOVEMBER 2017 nothing wrong with the at a Grimaldi’s. It’s there. It’s cool because world,” said Mia Gilling. higher class, you we get free ice cream,” In fact, the only thing we know?” said Mia said Melina Savill, a sophnoticed was that Paper Gilling. news THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS Doll was the only track omore. (Chelsea Lee, a SUPERon the album. junior is also pictured)

EMBRACE: IF YOU’VE NEVER BEEN

“I feel like this is Radiohead’s lesser known cousin,” said Gilling. “This is like I’m in 2005,” said Kiera Riley, Editor in Chief.

It definitely had a throwback feel, but this was one of our favorites out of the ten.

THE COUNTRY GOLD COLLECTION While none of us listen to country music, most of this was simply unbearable. “I don’t believe in country music, so this one is a zero out of ten for me,” said Mia Gilling.

8

Military representatives recruit students on campus

Step 1: Crop the jacket by cutting off 5-6 inches on the bottom.

Step 2: Cut out rectangles on both sleeves, and connect the opening with safety pins.

Step 3: Place safety pins at the bottom of the jacket, randomly dispersing them around the front and back.

Step 4: Place safety pins at the top of the pockets.

Step 1: Choose the design you want to paint on your jacket, and buy the colors of fabric paint necessary.

Step 2: Plan out your design by sketching it or using tape.

Step 3: Paint 2-4 coats until your design is opaque.

Step 4: Remove the tape to reveal clean lines throughout your design.

Mia Gilling style and photo editor Sara Windom editor in chief 11

NOvEmbEr 17, 2017 ■ 3

Art classes travel to New digital journalism class Pumpkin Festival revives online newspaper GRASS: IN IT FOR THE MONEY

Going into this, with the title the CD has, I did not expect to enjoy it as much as I did. It was actually kind of a jam.

By annie Sogaard g staff writer

GLEN CAMPBELL: 20 GREATEST HITS

“Heclass sounds Digital Journalism, a new onlike campus, a knockoff Harry enters its first year as a branch of the Nielson,” saidCTE program. The course is designed forThis students who Riley. was not an outstandingly have interest in a contemporary and technolunbearable album, ogy-centric form of journalism, and all the but none of us things that encompass it.were Students who are particularly enrolled in Digital Journalism have inclined tothe giveopporit another of shot. tunity to build on a wide variety new skills WINDOM U SARA them and employ in producing content for the school’s web newspaper, CS Press Online.

“You learn to figure out what is interesting to kids at the school and how to report it in a fair and ethical way,” said Lori Hart, digital journalism instructor. “The cool part now is that students are doing so with this technology that we didn’t use before.”

In terms of the structure and organization of the class, students are placed in six different teams with tasks switching off weekly. They learn things like how to shoot and edit videos for video news broadcasts, make podcasts, write in the journalistic style, or create infographics and polls.

“We get to do fun things you wouldn’t do in normal classes, like writing stories about popular topics both at school and around the world,” said Riley James, a sophomore in the class.

The rotation begins with writing news article with photos, then to writing opinion articles or reviews, doing “man on the street” interviews or polls, video news broadcasts, the podcast, and a photo essay. Students are responsible for all of the content posted to the site.

“The hard part is keeping up with the deadline because you only want to publish your best work for each project,” said Blake Dorame, a sophomore. “But my favorite thing is that we are always working on projects about topics we chose and have significance to us.”

Another trait unique to the Digital Journalism class as opposed to ‘regular’ courses is that students play a large part in what work they do for the class and what topics they enjoy.

“It’s hard to begin a story or to find a good topic that other people will be interested in,” said James, “but the easiest thing is when I do get to write about something I’m interested in; for example, we had to do a movie review, and I’m a huge movie fan and plan on being a director when I grow up.”

Like any new class, technical difficulties can and will occur. Students recently started updating the site daily and continue to learn from mistakes as they arise. But, with the site now posted to the school website and app, the pressure is on.

Cactus Shadows’ digital newspaper can be found at cactusshadowscspress.com and students interested in joining digital journalism in the future can see Lori Hart in room 609.

MELINA SAVIL, a sophomore

C

By Sara Windom g editor in chief

“I love Pink Floyd, Nirvana, the Chili Peppers, Ielebrating just went the third year of the to the Red Hot Chili Peppers now annual exhibit, art students from introconcert a few weeks ago. I to AP field tripped to the Carefree duction play guitar in a band called Enchanted Pumpkin Garden on Oct. 25.

“I thought it was cool that the guy was Chartreuse Moose, we’ve excited toashare playedsuper at Joe’s Grotto few his pumpkins with us and his paspumpkins, times sion whichfor is always really” said Lauryn Stornelli, a senior. fun.” Upon arrival, students were able to sit down in a small group and learn from master carver Ray Villafane himself. Once working as a toy sculptor for Warner Brothers, Villafane realized his MADALYN TERHARKT, a true medium-- pumpkins. Having sculpted onfreshman the fruit for 22 years, as of now, Villafane has carved on more than 2,500 pumpkins.

“I loved the fact that I was doing something no one 4 MIA GILLING had done before,” said Villafane during his discussion with the art students. Much of his talk was based on NOVEMBER 2017 intrigue encouraging artists to think outside of the box and dare to be different because what matters is how it makes the artist feel. “The more I enjoyed it, somehow, the more the world enjoyed it.”

After his speech, the artist did a live pumpkin carving in which he displayed the technique he uses most frequently. After shaving down the pumpkin and beginning to carve basic detailing, he offered the students to try to carve an eye, nose, cheek, or any other facial feature they desired.

“It was wonderful because Ray is a sculptor and he invited us for the third year in a row. He loves kids and loves artists,” said Deborah Whales, an art teacher that went on the trip.

After the talk, students were encouraged Featuring to walk around the garden and experience different the exhibit for themscenes selves. Featuring different scenes inspired inspired by

by Villafane’s personal Villafane’s humor, some pumpkins personal were found in jail cells, humor, some in the hospital, or even going for a swim in the pumpkins Carefree fountain.

“I wanted to see the were found exhibit, I wanted to see in jail cells, the hanging pumpkins, I in the thought that was kind of scary for a kid exhibit,” hospital, said Stornelli. or even After viewing the exhibit, many students going for a Villafane’s intent, swim in the to found inspiration behind Carefree the carvings.

“I want to draw more fountain. pumpkins now,” said Emily Cabrera, a senior.

The 10 day tradition is organized by the Villafane Studios team, which consists of Villafane, and other carvers from around the world, Chris Vierra, Nikolay Torkhov, Sue Beatrice, Dean Arnold, and Dmitry Klimenko.

Sonoran Arts League, encouraging student artists in the community, is hosting the next art field trip to Hidden in the Hills, which will be occurring today.

Sculpting SeSSion Children at

the enchanted pumpkin garden help Villafane carve a pumpkin at the annual festival. 4 sara windom

Sexual harassment and assault are seldom spoken about openly.

With a rise in celebrity figures being accused, it is time to...

THE

Break the Cycle

By SARA WINDOM and KIERA RILEY

g

12 ■ DECEMBER 22, 2017

FEATURE

STEPS

editors in chief

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PRESS

By MORGAN REIMER g

For victims or un dents, the majority not understand the sexual assault and h and the simple ye tasks that they ca save their lives.

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The newspaper of Cactus Shadows High School in Cave Creek, Arizona

WHAT’S INSIDE

WEATING,

THE DECEMBER 22, 2017 ISSUE

2

SADD STUDENTS With the revival of Students Against Destructive Decisions on campus, members work to spread SADD’s nationwide message to students. Griffin Goldstein talks how the resurgence came about and their goals for this year.

3

ADDICTED After Governor Doug Ducey declared the opioid crisis a statewide health emergency, more stories of obsession and overdose rose to the surface.

Brook Bowman examines how Arizona and the US are dealing with drug addiction.

13

S

\SARA WINDOM

KICK IT With aspirations set on state, the girls’ soccer team begins the season on a high note.

Kassidy Wheeler discusses the newest changes to the team and the coaching staff and how they plan to slide-tackle the season.

with the sizzling streets ablaze in the midst of Phoenix’s July heatwave, a 16-yearold girl walks quickly to the grocery store across from her apartment complex. Inside the front pocket of her shorts sits a few crumpled dollar bills, just enough for the list her mother gave her.

Midday temperatures this season set records as a 120 degree heat casts warmth throughout the state and force many to either stay indoors completely, or dress in compliance with the weather.

As she walks inside the convenience store, the teen notices a mother and father of two, groceries filling their cart. The mother’s red shoulders look sensitive, like she had just been sunburned a few hours ago. Seeing this relieves the teenager, she had almost worn a similar tank top, and her light skin would have ignited her instantly. But, after much debate, she decided upon an old T-shirt instead. After all, she was only going to the store.

Although dressed modestly, the teen senses eyes on the back of her neck. Turning, she sees two middle aged men behind her, snickering.

“Hey,” one begins, “do you like older men?”

As the two adults bear grins, the now anx-

continued from front page

“It happens on both sides. Men get sexually harassed too. I mean, women definitely more than men, but… I think like we need to unite and spread awareness about it to overcome it.”

RAPE

occurs when a person intentionally or knowingly engages a sexual act without the other person’s consent.

4CREATIVE COMMONS

1-800-656-

HOPE

See Assault on page 11

DECEMBER 22, 2017 ■ 11

with suggestive intentions, winking, blowing kisses, eating food in a provocative manner, continuous and unwanted flirting, inappropriate touching, massaging, attempted kissing, touching oneself in front of others, or exposing underwear or other parts of the body

With a sharp rise in prominent celebrity survivors coming forward about sexual harassment and assault, the general public now faces an epidemic that previously lived below the surface. The mass exodus of habitual predators resulted in a nationwide conversation about harassment and assault and how to face it.

Even though light is just now shedding on the numerous stories across Hollywood, as of 1998 17.7 million women and 2.78 million men have been the victims of sexual assault according to the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN).

“It happens on both sides. Men get sexually harassed too. I mean, women definitely more than men, but… I think like we need to unite and spread awareness about it to overcome it,” said Aidan Ranieri, a senior.

Sexual misconduct is generally defined as any unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature that is committed without consent, with force, or through intimidation, coercion, or manipulation.

Sexual misconduct is not limited to a certain gender, age, or relationship and can occur between any two people regardless of these factors.

The two most prominent in the media currently Aidan Ranieri, a senior. are harassment and assault. These terms often overlap and feed into one another, but as accusations continue to arise, it is becoming increasingly important to draw the line between the two.

Harassment entails unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical disturbances.

In the past, people typically associated sexual harassment with the workplace. However, these occurrences can happen anywhere, to anyone and can take many forms.

Forms of harassment span across a wide variety of actions that are not limited to physical contact. Making sexual jokes, verbally proposing things of a sexual nature, displaying explicit photos, cartoons, or objects, and discussing one’s body with blatant or covert innuendos all fall under the category.

Physical examples include intently staring or scanning

in

ing that they would not need to converse his entire travel home.

As soon as she noticed his stare, she smiled back. He likes me, she thought.

“Hi,” she beamed back.

He nodded, returning the greeting. Crossing her legs, she turned to face him, and smoothly, she said, “Now tell me, what’s a guy like you doing here?” as she scooted closer.

Trying his hardest not to engage, he continued his stare out the window.

“Oh, come on, you don’t have to be shy,” he could see her grinning from the reflection in the glass.

He inched closer to the aperture. Still only looking away from her, he began to feel a grip around the base of his knee. Shifting his glance, he discovered a hand belonging to the woman running up his leg, dragging nearer to his hips as she went.

“What are you doing?!” he exclaimed.

With a finger to her lips she hushed him.

Trapped, the man could only turn back to the window, close his eyes, and pray it would be over soon.

Weeks have passed, but he still shudders at the touch of his wife.

Stories like this occur every day.

FEATURE

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

Assault

ious girl turns around, and begins to walk through the aisles quicker. The two men begin following her trail, she heads for the door.

Catching up with her, the second man grabs her waist.

After struggling to get free, the child sprints out of the store and back to her house without delay. Months later, and the fear of danger in her own neighborhood has developed into agoraphobia, and she rarely leaves the house.

Following his daily routine, a newly married man boards the subway train that carries him home every day. Sitting alone in his usual window seat, he watches the other pedestrians go by. On most days the seat next to him remained vacant, and he had to admit, he did not mind the lack of company. At the office he was always surrounded by other people, so he found it relaxing to be able to collect himself as he sat the ride home in silence. Today, however, was not most days.

On this particular day, a stranger occupied the spot; a woman nearing his same age. She was tall, probably almost reaching six feet, with a slender frame and eyes that bugged out of her head. Her demeanor came off as completely harmless, especially with the giant sweater she was donning. Being polite, he exchanged a glance with her and smiled, hop-

DEFINITION OF SEXUAL ASSAULT Assault is a buzzword. It continues to make its rounds through multiple media sites. Sexual assault is defined by the United States Justice Department as, “any type of sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the explicit consent of the recipient. Falling under the definition of sexual assault are sexual activities as forced sexual intercourse, forcible sodomy, child molestation, incest, fondling, and attempted rape.”

Assault and harassment occur when one does not consent.

Consent is defined as an agreement to participate or engage in a sexual activity. According to Planned Parenthood, consent must be freely given, enthusiastic, specific, informed, and reversible.

According to RAINN, over half of all sexual assaults occur at or around the home. Other common places include in open, public places, at or near a relative's home, in enclosed public areas, such as parking garages, and on school property.

RAINN also states that every 98 seconds another person experiences sexual assault. Similarly, 9 out of 10 assault victims are female and that out of this group, females aged 16-19 are four times more likely to be victims of rape, attempted rape, or sexual assault.

“I believe that this statistic transfers to high school and college students because this is the time in their life that they are most vulnerable as well as looking for relationships or connections with others,” said Quinn Akin, a junior.

ASSAULT IS A SEACH FOR POWER Assault and harassment is not truly about sexual attraction or orientation. The underlying causes of sexual aggression stem from a desire for power. Because of this, we often see men or women in places of power taking advantage of others.

According to the Connecticut Alliance to End Sexual Violence’s National Statistics on Sexual Violence, “Sexual assault is motivated by hostility, power and control. Sexual assaults are not motivated by sexual desire. Humans are capable of controlling how they choose to act on or express sexual urges. Sexual assault is a violent attack on an individual, not a spontaneous crime of sexual passion.”

Like in any situation of assault, the biggest reason people choose to carry out actions of sexual assault stems from a craving to exert extreme dominance and power. This is a disorder, currently referred to as Personality Disorder of Excessive Power Strivings, according to the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health. On the power striving disorders section of their website, they claim, “Excessive power strivings both poison the personality of the individual who is obsessed in his spirit and mind with power and do unacceptable harm to other people's' lives.”

Reporting the rape can be seen as a form of revenge on the rapist, however only 310 out of 1,000 rapes get reported, according to RAINN. Another contributor is that the majority of victims do not come forward with their story. Reasons for this include a fear of retaliation, inaction of the courts, and believed they could not be helped. There is also a large stigma fogged around victims. Rape culture, defined as a society whose social attitudes normalize sexual assault or abuse, and victim blaming play into a person’s unwillingness to speak out.

“There isn’t enough support for the victims out there and it doesn’t make them want to speak up or talk about it, or even convict the person who raped them,” said Ranieri.

ARIZONA LAW Reporting any case of sexual assault differs from state to state and is dependent on age. Arizona law defines sexual assault as when a person intentionally or knowingly engages in sexual intercourse or oral sexual contact without the other person's consent.

“If you have an adult that you trust, let them know whats going on so they can advocate for you. It's very scary but nobody deserves to be abused,” said Dr. Steven Bebee, principal.

Harassment charges do not typical breach the legal margin.

Small instances of inappropriate behavior in the workplace are typically handled through the Human Resources department. If the behavior is consistent and threatening however, the victim may decide to press charges.

For high school and college students, victims can seek help through school counselors and intervention specialists.

Although these resources are available to those affected by sexual assault, many run into obstacles leaving their rapist free to roam the streets. According to RAINN, out of every 1,000 rapes, 994 of the rapists walk free. This is due to inaction on the parts of the judiciary system, claiming lack of evidence in most cases of rape.

“It's rare that someone comes forward and people actually believe them.

It’d be hard to grasp if it didn’t happen to you. We need to educate people about it more. It needs to be more of an awareness thing. We need to spread victim awareness and rapist awareness. I think there is not enough of that out there,” said Ranieri.

“According to RAINN, out of every 1,000 rapes, 994 of the rapists walk free. This is due to inaction on the parts of the judiciary system, claiming lack of evidence in most cases of rape.”

HOPE 98 6 OF 1,000

Every

seconds one

1-800-656-

person is sexually assaulted in America.

RAINN

national con-

fidential sexual assault hotline.

RAINN

perpetrators will end up in prison.

RAINN

\SARA WINDOM

VICTIM TO BLAME

ADVICE

Anonymous experienced

“

OPINION

SARA WINDOM Allegations of sexual misconduct arising at an ascending rate spark a public outcry for change. Along with this yearn for justice comes attempt of rationalization for these misconducts, one of the most popular rationalizations being victim shaming, more specifically, attacking a victim because of the way they choose to dress.

Many who barate the sufferer after claiming to have been assaulted, harassed or raped, criticize them based solely on stereotypes and assumption. Often it is accepted that a female reported walking alone at night wearing a tight skirt was practically asking for something to happen. Women should not wear tight skirts or go out at night if they do not want men to harass them. This is a dangerous and blatantly ignorant justification to argue for two reasons.

Firstly, females are not the only gender to deal with harassment. One in six women and one in ten men are victims of sexual harassment, according to the Rape Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN). When it comes down to it, these numbers are not very far apart, however, men are almost never given the ultimatum to cover up or welcome harassment.

Secondly, victims should never be blamed. Ever. It’s

as easy as that. Not only has the person gone through that excruciating and traumatizing experience, but choosing to come forward about it leads to tearing open freshly sealed wounds. This is not an easy task for anyone, and forcing criticism and anger onto them is not ameliorating anything. Exert your blame on the attacker for not being able to control his or her impulses.

Contrary to the common belief, in almost all cases, an attacker does not lash out because of the way a person is dressed at all, and actually has to do with a desire for total dominance, according to Georgetown Law. “The belief that only young, pretty women are sexually assaulted stems from the myth that sexual assault is based on sex and physical attraction. Sexual assault is a crime of power and control, and offenders often choose people whom they perceive as most vulnerable… or over whom they believe they can assert power.”

Sexual assault can happen to anybody, regardless of age, gender, race or dress, and should be taken seriously.

According to RAINN, every 98 seconds an American is sexually assaulted. This adds up to approximately 321,500 victims of sexual assault per year. Not every single one of these 300,000 people could be blamed for dressing provocatively.

Rather than shaming the victim, the people of America should be concerned with properly punishing the perpetrator, and those who are confided in should encourage them to tell their story and aid them in seeking professional help.

“Sexual assault can happen to anybody, regardless of age, gender, race or dress, and should be taken seriously.”

“BE RESPON

your drinking w trust, people tak your vulnerabil thing can happ can never take b with everythin don’t be afraid to

tain genre, they tend to enjoy music that’s new and innovative, resulting in many different styles of music and a lot of different and unique takes on them.

Michael Chmura, drummer

home grown

Whether it be the backlit streets of the city or the quiet reassurance of dirt roads, all great things have to start somewhere. Kiera Riley uncovers the big musical names of Arizona.

S

TRETCHING from the back alleyways of downtown Phoenix to the dimly lit venues in Tucson, rock starlets and genre mashing innovators alike draw from the unique energy of the desert.

Arizona harbors a particularly eclectic music scene, and produces quite a few household names.

“The Arizona music scene is really unique. People don't really gravitate towards a certain genre, they tend to enjoy music that's new and innovative, resulting in many different styles of music and a lot of different and unique takes on them,” said Michael Chmura, drummer of sunlaand.

The first genre to really emerge during the early days of the Arizona music scene was “cowboy music.” Western greats such as Billie Maxwell and Rex Allen drew influence from the wild west to pioneer the primitive days of the growing genre.

Another influence that played into Arizona music traveled from across the border. Southwestern music, heavily driven by Mexican folk music, eventually worked its way into the subconscious of every local musician. To this day, many rising bands draw influence from traditional forms of Mexican music.

“My music taste makes me feel very connected to the state of Arizona because of the large latino population.

I listen to a good amount of latino punk bands who not only make me feel connected to here, but my ethnic background as well,” said Nicolette Dorame, a senior.

Native american presence also drove different sounds that eventually melded into the scene. Canyon Records, the oldest Native American recording company, was first founded in Arizona in 1951 and recorded nearly 400 titles.

As far as notable modern musicians, Arizona boasts legends like Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac and Alice Cooper.

Nicks went on to stardom, winning Grammys alongside her band mates and pursuing a successful solo career.

Cooper, the freaky father of shock rock, pushed the envelope with unconventional on stage theatrics. Although Cooper comes across as explicit or controversial, he now asserts himself in Phoenix as a family-friendly and community oriented presence. Solid Rock, a non-profit organization aimed at musically enriching the lives of Arizona youth, is only one of the many outreach programs run by Cooper in Arizona.

“I think it’s a cool thing to kind of help people realize that they can be in a band too. I remember seeing bands at the Marquee and thinking, I couldn’t ever be that person, but things like School of Rock, or Girls Rock, or even places like The Trunk Space are a cool path for people to learn their voice and get comfortable working with other artists.

Everything takes time,” said Robbie Pfeffer of local band Playboy Manbaby.

Besides music greats, Arizona is also home to other musical talents. Jordin Sparks, Jimmy Eat World, The Gin Blossoms, The Meat Puppets, and Nate Ruess of Fun also got their start in the desert.

As far as now, Arizona hosts a variety of rising stars.

Some of the most prominent genres on the scene right now include rap, hip-hop, and variations of punk music.

Punk music is continually seen as a central feature of the Phoenix music scene especially.

Rising stars such as Playboy Manbaby, Diners, and Twin Ponies also call Phoenix home. Injury Reserve, based out of Tempe, is growing across the country as a household hiphop name. There are also a variety of high school and college students pursuing hip-hop, rap, and trap across the valley.

6

WSARA WINDOM AND ANNIE SOGAARD

DECEMBER 2017 intrigue

Sexual harassment and assault are seldom spoken about openly.

With a rise in celebrity figures being accused, it is time to...

12 ■ DECEMBER 22, 2017

THE

Break the Cycle THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

FEATURE

STEPS TO TAKE

By SARA WINDOM and KIERA RILEY

g

editors in chief

Many may seek help following sexual assault or harassment.

By MORGAN REIMER g staff writer

For victims or uncertain students, the majority of people do not understand the dangers of sexual assault and harassment, and the simple yet beneficial tasks that they can utilise to save their lives.

Many people struggle with coming forward that they were assaulted, but that is the most crucial step. In this day and age, simple actions can aide anyone in this time of need.

What to do: If this happens to someone, take immediate action and call the police and make a report.

Then, if needed, get medical attention. Finally, take photos or videos of the injury and call an attorney. These precautions can help more than one understands in the long run.

What not to do: Do not continue contact with the person

VICTIM

\SARA WINDOM

of assault, or attempt to get revenge. These feelings can lead to anger and guilt, and overall would not make the person who was assaulted feel better. Though it may seem ideal, do not take a shower, brush teeth, etc, until in contact with the police or a hospital.

If this does happen to occur to a friend, loved one, or oneself, get medical treatment as soon as possible, and tell someone trustworthy. They have to know that they are not the one to blame, and to get past that, they have to accept themselves and the truth.

If people need help right away, they can call 1-800-656HOPE (46730) to learn more and conquer what they went through.

ADVICE FROM VICTIMS

PRESS

The newspaper of Cactus Shadows High School in Cave Creek, Arizona

\SARA WINDOM

in tri gue

inside ingtrigue

SEEING IT

FOOD

the creators of

3 A Taste of Mexico

intrigue

A review of Calakmul, a new Mexican restaurant.

3 Poke Bowls

A review of the new hit movie.

A breif history on the classic Hawaiian dish.

CREEKER

4 The ‘Chip is Back

An update on the Buffalo Chip after its 2015 fire.

4 The Perfect Cut

Mia GILLING Style editor Maddie HOWARD Creeker editor Katelyn REINHART Spotlight editor Sean GANNON Tech editor Emma RUSSELLO Travel editor Zoie LAMBESIS Food editor Grace HAYCRAFT-McKEE Trending Now editor

Behind the scenes of the Meat Market.

MEAT AND GREET. Owner Roni Terry of the

TRAVEL

Meat Market stands next to a cut of meat. See the story on page 4. 4 ZOIE LAMBESIS

The magazine for Arizona teens

5

Cheap Flights

Learn how to get tickets to the lowest costing flights.

inside INTRIGUE this month

SPOTLIGHT

6 ‘IT’ is a Hit

A review of September’s best selling movies.

6 New Music Venue

The Van Buren is Phoenix’s latest edition to the music scene.

7

Office Jobs

A look at the different roles employees in the office have.

TRENDING NOW

spotting fake designer

9

Senior Assassins

The ins and outs of the high school game.

STYLE

10 Closet Essentials

Necessary pieces for everyday wear.

11 Spotting Fake Designer

How to tell if that’s real Gucci.

11

The Art of Buying and Selling

Where to find new treasures and get rid of old clothes.

TECH

12 Updated Technology

New features and updates are coming up in the tech world.

POPPIN’ TAGS Jacob Mercado, a senior, checks out

KILLING THE GAME

Kiwanis Marketplace for thrift finds. See the story on page 11. 4 MIA GILLING

Dive into all things senior assassins.

contributing to

INTRIGUE

HOW TO: BUY AND SELL CLOTHES

Annalee Barnett has been a contributor of the CSPress for three years, taking on the Sports Editor position. In her spare time, she enjoys playing golf. This month, she takes a break from the sport to check in on the Buffalo Chip, a popular restaurant in Cave Creek.

Kassidy Wheeler is a junior, and first time writer for the CSPress. Having an interest in photography and writing, he hopes to expans his knowledge on the subjects. This month, he helps explain upcoming technology for the autumn season.

Out With the Old, In With the New

With the start of the 2017 school year, September is the month of adjusting. No matter what it is; getting used to waking up before 11, trying out your new job at Starbucks, or dealing with a breakup, we are all constantly adapting. Intrigue’s attention this month is just that.

Whether its the fall season so close we can almost taste it, or the exciting events to look forward to, like the Homecoming dance, we are not only recognizing these ever changing events but we celebrate them.

Inside this issue you will find articles celebrating the new teachers, new restaurants and music venues.

Going into detail on the different front desk jobs, perfect everyday looks, and how to get the most bang out of your buck when flying, no matter what it is, we at Intrigue are here to help you adjust. Autumn will soon arrive, and with it, we hope countless new experiences are upon you.

2

SEPTEMBER intrigue

inside ingtrigue

November 2017

in tri gue

PIZZA PARTY

FOOD

the creators of

3 Meatless Thanksgiving

intrigue

A how-to guide on all things vegetarian Thanksgiving.

Mia GILLING Style editor Maddie HOWARD Creeker editor Katelyn REINHART Spotlight editor Emma RUSSELLO Travel editor Zoie LAMBESIS Food editor Grace HAYCRAFT-McKEE Trend-

CREEKER

4 Gaga for Goga

Goga, or goat yoga, has come to Cave Creek.

4 It Tastes Divine

Phoenix hosts its first ever pizza festival tommorrow.

A closer look at new bakery It’s a Divine Bakery in Cave Creek.

ing Now editor

TRAVEL PREPPING FOR THE HOLIDAYS, Cave Creek Candles offers a variety of winter scents including Christmas Tree. See the story on page 4. 4 GRACE

12 Following the Festivities

HAYCRAFT-MCKEE

inside INTRIGUE this month

The magazine for Arizona teens

Students travel across the states to attend music festivals.

SPOTLIGHT

7

Thor Outdoes Itself

A review of the hit movie Thor: Raganork.

8 Going in Blind

Zia Records offers CD bundles covered by duct tape.

8 Humans of Cactus Shadows Get to know the student body.

TRENDING NOW

inspecting the fall play

9

YouTube Careers

Students gain fame through popular YouTube channels.

STYLE

10 Getting the Runway Look How to steal style off the runway.

A Breath of Fresh Air

Emma Russello reviews the Government Inspector, this year’s fall production.

POSING FOR A PICTURE, Alyssa Hipschman, a senior, gets her senior pictures taken. See the story on page 12. 4 SARA WINDOM

LIGHT IT UP

contributing to

Cave Creek Candles makes and sells one of a kind candles.

INTRIGUE Maja Peirce is a junior and new staffer this year. In her spare time, Peirce attends Lit Mag meetings and practices photography. This month, she takes on the style section, writing about cologne and runway diversity.

HOW TO: TAKE A SENIOR PHOTO 2

Annie Overfield is a junior, and first time writer for the CSPress, joining to continue improving her writing skills. Overfield was previously in the Creative Writing class.

This month she discusses Phoenix’s first pizza festival.

With the dullness of the inbetween, life can become mundane and at times, even stressful. With college application deadlines growing nearer, midterms around the corner, and the stress of the holiday season coming up, Intrigue’s attention this month is taking a breath and relaxing.

Whether that be going to the Cave Creek Candle shop, practicing yoga, or to a music festival with your friends on the night of the premiere, being a human can be stressful, and reminding oneself to relax is important. By trying out new bakeries that will soothe your stomach and your soul, and describing how to make a healthy Thanksgiving meal, we at Intrigue are here to help you relax.

Though life can sometimes seem dull or despondent, we encourage you to self love and take care.

OCTOBER intrigue

inside ingtrigue

October 2017

in tri gue

TRUTH ABOUT TESLA

FOOD

the creators of

3 Staying Energized

intrigue

The health disadvantages and benefits to energy drinks.

3 Tea for Two

Discussing all things matcha.

CREEKER

4 A Taste of Cave Creek

Cave Creek’s barbecue hot spots are put to the test.

4 Catch Them All

Mia GILLING Style editor Maddie HOWARD Creeker editor Katelyn REINHART Spotlight editor Sean GANNON Tech editor Emma RUSSELLO Travel editor Zoie LAMBESIS Food editor Grace HAYCRAFT-McKEE Trending Now editor

A closer look at fishing spots around the valley.

Environmentally friendly cars.

TAKING A LAP, a stuffed bear sits driver’s side

TRAVEL

during cars and coffee. See the story on page 12.

5

4 KATELYN REINHART

inside INTRIGUE this month

The magazine for Arizona teens

¡Celebrar!

Learn more about Dia de Los Muertos, a holiday honoring the dead.

SPOTLIGHT

7 Wonderful, Wonderful Lives up to Name

Five years in the making, the Killers have released a new record.

8 Dancing the Night Away

Find out if school dances are worth attending.

8 Humans of Cactus Shadows Get to know the student body.

TRENDING NOW

9

Contemporary Art Hotspot

Highlighting exhibits at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. STYLE

10 Creating a Costume

Ideas for last minute Halloween costumes.

11 Seasonal Beauty

Try the hottest fall trends in the makeup world.

11

proof is in the pudding

Beauty Essentials

Hair and makeup products reccomended by students.

TECH

12 Caffiene and Crusin’

Every month, car fanatics check out cars at Scottsdale 101.

Student bands compete in the annual competition.

SHINING BRIGHT, James Osolnick, a sophomore,

gazes in the popular light exhibit, Ocean of Light. See the story on page 9. 4 SARA WINDOM

PICKING A PUMPKIN

contributing to

INTRIGUE

With autumn arriving, pumpkin patches are opening across the valley.

As autumn returns, the summer heat vanishes, replaced by a cool breeze. Now that Arizonans can once again go outside, Intrigue’s attention this month is going places. Whether that be going to the big school dance or to the movies with your friends on the night of the premiere, as humans, we need to be constantly encouraging going the extra mile, and making memories count. Inside this issue you will find articles encouraging you to keep going, from student bands in a contest, to barbeque dinners in Cave Creek to goodwill to buy materials for a last minute costume. By disclosing fishing spots that will get you a breath of fresh air, and describing events going on around town, we at Intrigue are here to help you get going. As we continue throughout life, we are constantly changing as people, and we must welcome that with elation.

Morgan Reimer is a junior, and first time writer for the CSPress, joining to continue improving her skills at writing.

Some of her top favorite book series are Harry Potter and Percy Jackson. She takes a break from reading this month to discuss escape rooms.

Olivia Stickel is a senior and two year editor, this year taking on Features. In her spare time, Stickel runs Fashion Club and watches movies. This month, she reviews Blade Runner: 2049.

HOW TO: DIY A COSTUME

Oh, the Places You’ll Go

2

OCTOBER intrigue

inside ingtrigue

December 2017

in tri gue

FOOD

THROWBACK

the creators of

3 Making a House of Gingerbread

intrigue

Learn the history of the classic holiday activity.

Mia GILLING Style editor Maddie HOWARD Creeker editor Katelyn REINHART Spotlight editor Emma RUSSELLO Travel editor Zoie LAMBESIS Food editor Grace HAYCRAFT-McKEE Trend-

CREEKER

Music lives on throughout the decades.

4 Inside the Prickly Pear

Getting to know the latest edition to Cave Creek.

4 Neighborhood Festivities

Candy Cane Lane lights up during the holidays.

ing Now editor

TRAVEL THINGS ARE GETTING HOT, Cave Creek

houses a hot sauce store famous for their signature flavors. See the story on page 4. 4 SEAN GANNON

12 Travel Watch

inside INTRIGUE this month

The magazine for Arizona teens

Updates to flight procedure.

SPOTLIGHT

7

Homegrown Tunes

A look into the expansion of local music.

8 Dance Off

The annual dance show was inspired by written word.

8 Humans of Cactus Shadows Get to know the student body.

TRENDING NOW

9

Lighting up Arizona

Groundbreaking Reputation

Taylor Swift’s new album breaks records.

STYLE

10 Seasonal Sensation

Makeup that will pop at any party.

Celebrating the holiday season, many cities in Arizona deck out in lights.

It’s All in Your Head

STAR WARS

The Last Jedi breaks records.

DANCING AROUND, Reilly Krawzyck, a senior,

performs in the annual fall dance show. See the story on page 10. 4MIA GILLING

contributing to

INTRIGUE

Brook Bowman is a junior at Cactus Shadows who hopes to pursue a career in journalism.

Last year she took a creative writing course and is hoping to go to school to study her writing passion. This month, she spotlighted the new security guard on campus.

HOW TO: BUILD A GINGERBREAD HOUSE 2

Katelyn Reinhart, a senior, enters her third year of newspaper with enthusiasm as the Spotlight editor. As an aspiring journalist, Reinhart hopes to make a career out of writing, regardless of the topic. This issue she discusses hot sauce around Cave Creek.

As the holidays have hit full fledged, stress crowds the brain. Housing guests or traveling to visit others, getting and giving gifts, finals, all of it hits at once. It is easy to forget the spirit of the season when focusing on the list of tasks begging to be completed. Because of this, Intrigue’s focus this month is taking a remembering that meaning. Spendinh a night strolling down Candy Cane Lane, practicing holiday makeup or checking out your friend’s dance performance can help remind you to be thankful for what you have and where you are at in life. By listening to that throwback playlist your friend made you, or baking a gingerbread house with your family, we at Intrigue are here to help you feel the spirit. Though life can sometimes get hectic, we encourage you to give thanks and warmth this season.

DECEMBER intrigue