March 2011

VOLUME XLIII ISSUE VII

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011

Devastation Japan’s earthquake shakes close to home in Japan

By Karnpal Cheema

The death toll of the earthquake and tsunami is over 10,000 with more than 17,000 still missing.

The island nation of Japan was recently shaken by a 9.0 magnitude earthquake, the strongest recorded in over a hundred years. A tsunami followed the earthquake, wreaking havoc on Japan’s eastern coast.

The quake occured on March 11, 2011. pThe day of the quake, para-professional Pat Erb was visiting her daughter, Louise Sloan in Iwakuni, Japan. Iwakuni is 752 miles south of the epicenter, in the northern city of Sendai.

Due to Sloan’s home on the military base in Iwakuni being so

Photo: blogs.state.gov Much of Japan has been ravaged by the recent eathquake and tsunami. Toppled buildings, food shortages, flooding and thousands of missing people are a few of the many problems for the Japanese to overcome.

thetelegraph.co.uk

The duration of the earthquake was three to five minutes.

100,000 soldiers were deployed in the rescue and recovery.

The tsunami waves hit the west coast, smashed ships and carried five people out to sea.

The residents of Sendai were warned 10 minutes before the quake happened. scientificamerican.com

Photo: cia.gov

far south, even further south than Hiroshima, they were spared from much of the devestation that took place north of the capital, Tokyo.

“We were lucky enough to not even feel anything,” Erb said.

“There were sirens on the base, though.”

Due to the Island of Shikoku blocking Iwakuni from the ocean activity, Erb’s family was also unable to see results of the tsunami that swept much of the coast.

“We were out shopping when the earthquake happened,” Erb

said. “We got to the base and then found out there was a terrible earthquake. I was shocked at first, but I was okay when my daughter told me we probably would not be affected.”

On March 23, 2011, the Japanese Cabinet Office estimated that the entire cost of reconstruction will be around $309 billion. Japan has already received financial aid from many nations including the United States.

“The people of Japan are teaching me so much about handling

Indian mascot controversy continues

By Halle Daul Throughout the 2010-11 school year, there has been more controversy about the Indian mascot.

1962 Berlin graduate, Tom Sobieski has notified the school board that unless they make these changes soon, he will make a complaint to the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI.) If this is the case, Berlin would then have to go through all stages of court and possibly, have to change the infamous Indian mascot.

Sobieski was unavailable to comment at this time, but left pamphlets about Indian mascots.

One pamphlet questions whether or not the Indian mascot meets WIAA sportsmanship standards. It

states that it breaks the respect, fairness and fun aspect of sports.

The other lists many different schools that changed their mascots, stating it has helped their school rather than hurt them.

History teacher Gary Knoke surveyed the Berlin High School staff, asking whether or not they feel the mascot should be changed. (Results posted to the right.)

It is difficult to tell at this point whether or not Sobieski will send a complaint to the DPI or let the rage of publicity fizzle away.

Sobieski talked to Cliff Morton, another man who is involved with the mascot issue in Wisconsin, and they would like to plan a forum in Berlin to inform residents of this issue.

Mascot Change Staff Survey Strongly oppose the mascot change - 22 Slightly oppose the mascot change - 4 No opinion - 10 Slightly in favor of the mascot change - 6 Strongly in favor of the mascot change - 10

adversity,” Sloan stated in an email to Erb. “There is no looting. There is no fighting over scant supplies.

There is a sense of togetherness in the face of so much loss.”

Budget Repair Bill temporarily blocked, still heated issue

By Karnpal Cheema and Amberlee Perry On Friday, March 11, Governor Scott Walker’s Budget Repair Bill was passed and signed.

Legislators voted 53-42 to pass the budget-repair proposal. All Democrats voted against the bill along with four Republicans.

However, the bill cannot begin the process of becoming a law until it is published in a local newspaper.

Secretary of State Doug La Follete planned to publish the law on March 25, but Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne filed suit with the Dane County Circuit Court, claiming that the legislative committee violated the state’s Open Meeting Law. The Open Meeting Law states that all discussions must be done in public to provide enough basis for all members to vote upon. The law also ordains that the meeting must be open to the public.

Continued on page 3

In This Issue

Fishing Pg. 8

Artist Feature Pg. 3

News................................................. 1 Opinion............................................ 2 Feature............................................. 3 Arts & Entertainment.................... 6 Sports............................................... 8

Red ‘n’ Green

Page 2

Thursday, March 31, 2011

NEWS CONT. /OPINION Pop culture trends, divine or disaster: What is the deal with Charlie Sheen?

By Nora Weiske

Charlie Sheen, best known for being the star in “Two and a Half Men,” has clearly gone mad!

While I was watching the news, my television changed to an exclusive interview about the abusive father.

Not only is Sheen abusive to his two twin boys, Bob and Max, who are almost three years old, but also to his ex-wife, Brooke Mueller.

Sheen was accused of taking the twins from his ex-wife’s house without permission and holding them for a week.

When Mueller tried to get the boys back, Sheen threatened to decapitate her.

Along with stardom comes the delusion of being better then everyone else.

Dude, just because you are famous does not mean you can get away with anything you want.

Sheen’s sons were later taken away from him because somebody

Photo: H. Daul filed a complaint that the children were not safe with him....ya think!?

Crazy or not, I used to actually liked the show “Two and a Half Men.” Not anymore.

Recently, the show has been cancelled due to Sheen’s behavior.

Sheen even went on a rant about the show’s creator, Chuck Lorre,

on live radio.

Sheen then blamed the season cancellation of the show on Lorre adding that Lorre was a “contaminated maggot.”

Charlie, if you do not have anything nice to say, do not say anything at all.

It was probably a good idea to cancel the show. I would not want to be around a nutcase, either.

After Sheen’s discharge from earlier hospitalization in January, the troubled actor was rushed back to the hospital with stomach pains after partying for 36 hours straight.

During that time, Sheen had a briefcase full of cocaine delivered to his house.

Holy cow! No wonder this man is insane. I think Sheen and Lindsey Lohan should become best friends and live in straight jackets the rest of their lives.

On that note, Charlie Sheen is 100 percent disaster...maybe even more than 100 percent.

Letter to the Editor Dear Editor, Why do sports like swimming, golf and soccer never get as much recognition for doing as well, if not better than sports like football or basketball? Boys swimming went to state this year, but I only heard about it once or twice. If basketball or football got to state there would be major celebrations.

Some people may say that basketball is harder or football is tougher. All I have to say to those people is that swimmers swim miles in the water and soccer players are constantly running.

People complain about our lack of school spirit at certain sports, but the soccer cheering section is about one-third of the student section at any given basketball game.

All I am asking is that we show a little more support to the sports that do not get any or as much recognition as other sports!

Anonymous

Senior Survival Guide: Senioritis, widespread disease plagues Graduates to be

By Halle Daul Third trimester is in full swing, and seniors are receiving acceptance letters from colleges, handing in dorm room applications or starting a new career. The year already seems like it has come to an end, so it is quite obvious why all the seniors are asking, “why try?”

The infamous “Third Tri Why Try” statement has plagued us for centuries. Seniors seem to think since they are already accepted into college, there is no need to try.

By the time third trimester starts, fatigue and lack of motivation have bombarded a large number of seniors, and they begin to slack off to the extreme. This horrible disease is widely known as “senioritis.”

Senioritis is a horrible sickness that is difficult to overcome. It attacks one’s drive and motivation to finish the school year successfully.

Unfortunately, it is something that attacks almost all seniors, as their will power just is not strong enough to withstand it.

I first caught senioritis my junior year, so the severity is close to unbearable. I would rather be going to basketball games or hanging out with friends, but being the type A personality that I am, I have to do my homework first.

There are two obvious symptoms of senioritis. Knowing these symptoms may help seniors avoid catching this disease.

Symptom 1: Lack of motivation There may be some days where one does not want to get out of bed, and most of those days are the ones

that end in “Y.” If that is the case, change the alarm to an excruciatingly loud sound. The urge to hit the snooze button may appear, but fight it. Hitting the snooze button only makes one more tired. Get out of bed the first time the alarm goes off, shower, grab a cup of java and head to school.

Symptom 2: Homework is viewed as evil Though many people think of homework as the big green monster, it actually helps students prepare for quizzes and tests. Instead of blowing it off, do it right after school is over. That way, one still has time to go to games or to spend time chilling. If there is a lot to do, take a break, then start again. (Note: too long of a break may lead to drowsiness the next morning.)

There are many other dangers

The Red ‘n’ Green Berlin High School 222 Memorial Drive Berlin, WI 54923 920.361.2000 redandgreen@berlin.k12. wi.us The Red ‘n’ Green is printed monthly by Berlin High School and circulated free to students.

The purpose of the Red ‘n’ Green is to be a public forum for our staff, students and readers. We want to create close ties between the administration, faculty, students and the Berlin community. We will give readers the opportunity to voice opinions. The Red ‘n’ Green will accept only signed letters to the editor, although names will be withheld upon request. We reserve the right to return letters for corrections before publishing. The staff will not print any material that is libelous, obscene or malicious.

Editorials are unsigned as they reflect the majority opinion of the staff. Editorial topics will be covered in a fair manner. However, controversial topics will be covered.

Subscriptions are available. Please contact the business manager at the above email address or phone number.

Editor-in-Chief: Halle Daul

Business Manager: Nora Weiske

Reporters:

Photo: N. Weiske with senioritis, but knowing the two main symptoms will help seniors catch this disease early enough to bounce back and get into the groove once again.

If you or someone you know is suffering from senioritis, call 555-SEN-IORS. The hotline offers help in over 62 different languages.

Karnpal Cheema Caleb Draves Jenna Horn Amberlee Perry Jostun Pomplun Peter Schrader Caitlyn Schubert Quinn Thompson Amaerani Torres Eric Wolfe

Advisor: Shannon Kuehmichel

Editorial:

Walker has gone wack

Many people are infuriated over Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker’s Budget Repair Bill. Despite the rallying and protesting that has occured over the past month, the Wisconsin State Senate passed the bill on March 11. Walker signed his bill the following evening at 8:02 p.m.

Everyone who has been watching the news should have some idea of what Walker’s bill entails. He wants to eliminate the collective bargaining rights of unions.

It does not make sense that these employees’ bargaining rights should be thrown under the bus.

Many teachers, therefore, oppose the bill. Many people think that they are only upset about the money, but that is not the case.

With this bill in action, teachers will not be able to bargain over the number of students that are in each classroom. With the possibility of

40 students to a classroom, how can it be assured that all of them are learning the material? It is hard enough with 20 students, especially when many students like to goof off and socialize.

If education were really so important to state figures like Walker, why would he take away these bargaining rights? This is not going to help education, only spoil it.

Wisconsin’s motto is “Forward.”

We are known as a state that is always striving to be a national leader, and many take pride in that. If the education of Wisconsin’s students is negatively impacted, how will we ever continue to move forward?

In the long run, Walker’s BudgetRepair Bill is not going to be the answer to all of our problems. Come next November, which is the earliest that a recall can occur, many expect Walker to be removed from office.

Wisconsin “Forward?”

Red ‘n’ Green

Thursday, March 31, 2011

Page 3

FEATURE Swimmer, student worthy of award

By Jenna Horn The winner of March’s Student of the Month award is Senior Courtney Clewien.

“I am very honored to be recognized for this award. Hard work and keeping my grades up in school really pays off in the end,” Clewien said.

Guidance Counselor Matt Willet thinks highly of Clewien, not just as a student, but as a person too.

“She is a very nice girl. She works hard to be in the top percent of her class, and she really excels in the swimming program,” Willet said.

The teachers at Berlin High School have made an impact on Clewien throughout her high school career, helping her to get where she is today.

Clewien is a member of LINC Crew, plays the piano and oboe in the school band and has participated on the swim team four years.

Science teacher Tim Cox thinks Clewien is a worthy stu-

Linc Crew leader grabs March’s award

By Peter Schrader

Photo Submitted dent for this award, also. Clewien is dedicated to what she does, taking part in the creation of the Rube Goldburg Machine.

“Courtney is a very hard worker, and very conscientious. She no doubt deserves this,” Cox said, “Clewien really stepped up and took charge when the physics students made the machine. She really is a dependable student.”

After she graduates, Clewien will attend the University of Wisconsin-Lacrosse studying in the health field.

Corey Van Egeren, history lover and Key Club member, wins March’s Student of the Month award.

“It is a great honor to be nominated for this award,” Van Egeren said. “I am always motivated to get good grades, go on to college and do the best I can.”

Spanish teacher Jairo Granados feels that Van Egeren is especially suited for this award. He thinks that Van Egeren is a very deserving student.

“I am very glad that Corey won this award,” Granados said. “A lot of times, only sociable people win this award. Corey is a quiet guy and that can sometimes be perceived as a negative trait. I think that quiet people can meditate on things. He can also be sociable once you get to know him.”

The biggest thing that has blocked Van Egeren’s path so far is his father.

His father was not around much when he was a kid.

“My father was never part of my life,” Van Egeren said. “Not having

Upcoming Events April 12

Clay Lamberton Concert Series First Grade, Fourth Grade and Cougar Choir 2:15 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Clay Lamberton Big Gym

April 13-22 Photo: S. Kuehmichel a father figure around to help with homework and everyday problems was pretty tough.”

Van Egeren plans to attend Carthage College in Kenosha. He enjoys history and would like to become a history teacher. Granados thinks this goal can be easily accomplished.

“He has a very good attitude toward learning and has a passion for it. He always pays attention during class,” Granados said. “Corey is a very intellectual person, which makes him very teachable.”

Clay Lamberton Book Fair 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

April 15

Muffins with Mom Kindergarten/1st grade 7:30 a.m.

April 15

Rick Allen the Magician 6:30 p.m. at Clay Lamberton

April 19

Food Service classes catering at Little Sprouts Discovery Center

Featured Artiste: The Allison Yonke Project

By Caleb Draves

Senior Allison Yonke’s fascination with art began at a very young age.

She spent much of her early childhood admiring her grandmother, who was also a talented artist.

“My grandma first taught me to crochet, but I never really got into that,” Yonke said. “She always painted, though, and as a kid I wanted to be just like her.”

As an elementary student, Yonke started taking art classes for the first time. From the beginning, Yonke shined as a naturally talented artist.

“I remember the first time we worked with clay, I made this bird and I thought it was the coolest thing ever,” Yonke said. “ I brought it home and made my mom put it on display.”

However, it was not until mid-

dle school that Yonke began to truly realize her talent. Art became more than just a class.

“You start looking at things in a different way,” Yonke said. “For example, when you see a pretty sunset, you take it in for just a second longer and think ‘hey, that would be cool to draw’.”

Over the years, Yonke’s raw talent has slowly been shaped and molded into a strong understanding of art.

“Teachers help a lot by giving you hints,” Yonke said. “But you learn a lot on your own by picking up on different techniques and watching others.”

All great artists have a source of inspiration and, like many, Yonke cites nature as her strongest influence.

Yonke’s passion helps her to embody nature.

Photo: C. Draves

While Yonke enjoys all types of art, she truly excels at drawing and painting scenes from nature.

“I have always lived in the country, Yonke. and I feel a connection to nature,” “I really enjoy the artwork of Yonke said.

Terry Redlin,” Yonke said. “He is an Of course, the artwork of oth- outdoorsman, and we have a lot of ers also plays a role in influencing similar ideas.”

Budget Repair Bill continued from page 1

In terms of the State Senate, the Open Meeting Law dictates that the public must be informed of a meeting at least 24 hours prior to it, and two in an emergency.

Ozanne filed on the grounds that the bill was passed roughly an hour and forty minutes after the public was notified, and only one of the doors to enter the capitol was unlocked. The meeting was also held in a room that could not accomodate the capacity of the public audience.

The suit was assigned to Circuit

Court Judge Maryann Sumi.

“The judge did not say that the bill was wrong,” science teacher Tim Cox said. “She is saying that the way the law was voted on and passed was wrong, and if they want it to be passed, they need to repeat the process, following the Open Meeting Law.” Sumi’s ruling took effect on Friday, March 18.

Walker continues to support the passing of the bill.

During a speech following the ceremonial signing of the bill,

in a Journal Sentinal recording, Governor Walker encouraged the people of the state that they are taking positive strides toward a stable government.

“In our measure today we helped take the first step towards putting in place a stable government,” Walker said. “A government that is stable not only for the next several months, and not only for the next two years, but a government at both the state and local level that will be stable for generations to come.”

Recently, Yonke’s talents have received recognition on a national level, and even put some dinero in her pocket. In just the last year, Yonke won the AODA Poster Contest, made top twenty in the nation in Skutt Kiln’s Peephole Contest and placed second in the state and third in the nation after entering her wild turkey drawing in the National Wild Turkey Federation’s turkey contest.

Yonke was also the twelfth grade winner of the Wisconsin State Trooper Art Contest, which she views as her biggest accomplishment to date.

As Yonke packs up years of work and prepares for college, it is impossible to deny her many accomplishments. Yonke, however, views her youth as merely a preparation for years of art to come.

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Berlin CSI: Red ‘n’ Green

Page 4

Student theft continues

By Jon Krueger

Recently, a student’s PlayStation® Portable 3000 was stolen from Berlin High School. The Berlin Area School District is offering the “Quick 50” program in order to recover the stolen property.

The “Quick 50” program is used to reward people who share information about a theft, guns on school property or anything else that is illegal at school. Students who give information about the illegal activities are rewarded with $50.

Student theft in school districts is a problem that continues to affect many people. The items stolen most often are electronics, money and clothing.

Students who are caught stealing are charged with theft. They then

attend municipal court or criminal court depending on their age.

“We do a good job in recovering stolen property. I would say we recover about 50 percent of the reported thefts,” Liaison Officer Doug Christensen said.

The most expensive item stolen from the Berlin Area School District was a projector. A student thought it would be a good idea to steal a $10,000 projector to enhance his or her video game play at home.

The most common place belongings are stolen are the locker rooms because there are no cameras.

“As long as students lock their lockers and keep their expensive belongings at home, they should not have a problem with theft,” Christensen said.

Identity theft by the numbers $1,378

The out-ofpocket cost for the victim to resolve identity theft damage

15

Percentage of victims that do not learn of their identity being stolen for four or more years

330

Average number of hours it takes to repair the damage done by identity theft

43

Percentage of victims who know the perpetrator who stole their identity

25.9

Number (in millions) of Americans that now carry identity theft insurance

$4,841

Average amount taken from each identity theft victim

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Phones

Cell phones are often left in unsupervised backpacks, making them easy to steal.

Thursday, March 31, 2011

iPods

iPods are stolen because of their size and value. iPods are the most commonly stolen item.

M m fr a c to

Incarceration teaches lesson, m

By Amberlee Perry Teenage rebellion often leads to punishment. For most high school students, the worst case scenario would be one of the following: grounded for a short period of time, confiscation of the cell phone, or limited time on Facebook®. For senior Zach Rauls, however, the punishment for his behavior was fierce. Rauls was arrested and taken to Green Lake County Jail.

On Jan. 28, Rauls was called to Officer Doug Christensen’s office after the school received an anonymous tip.

“In Officer Christensen’s room, I had to talk to Mr. Mork and then go to the office,” Rauls said.

“The cops came and I had to talk to them. They arrested me there, walked me to the car and took me to jail.”

Rauls had brought Coricidin® Cough and Cold medicine to school.

“I had come to school high on it before, and no one had even noticed,” Rauls said. “The second time, I brought it to school and I was ratted out.”

Rauls was assigned to a Huber Dorm, which functions under the Huber Law. The law allows county inmates to be employed during the day. Thus, Rauls was allowed to go to school.

For a month, Rauls had to be transported from jail to school and back every day. He was not allowed to go anywhere else, and he had to return to jail by a certain time.

“My mom would pick me up between 7:20 and 7:30 a.m.,” Rauls said. “I had to be back to jail by 4 p.m. It really sucked.”

Rauls was already on probation, so his punishment was slightly more severe than a first-time offender’s.

“Usually a student will not go to jail immediately following the arrest. The charges are referred to the courts who arrange for court dates with the defendant,” Christensen said. “Once convicted, the student may face fines, jail time, added probation/supervision as well as other legal consequences.

However, a student could be taken into custody and transported to jail if the charge is substantial.”

Rauls’ case was just one of many cases that Christensen has dealt with over the years.

“This situation has happened several times over the past ten years that I have been the Police Liaison Officer,” Christensen said.

Until his imprisonment, Rauls had never enjoyed coming to school. However, that changed after school became his only escape from jail.

“I actually started to like coming

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to school,” Rauls said. “It made the time go by a lot faster.”

During Rauls’ time away from school, he participated in various activities to keep boredom at bay.

“I slept a lot to pass the time,” Rauls said. “Otherwise I would play cards with the other guys or watch TV. Sometimes I would do my homework, too.”

Rauls did experience some excitement inside the concrete walls.

“There were a lot of fights between the inmates,” Rauls said.

“That is really the only exciting thing that happens there. I just kept hoping that I would not get caught in the middle of one.”

The dorm to which Rauls was assigned is designed to house up to 20 inmates.

“The other prisoners talked to me,” Rauls said. “At first they just wanted to know what I was in for, but then they talked to me about different things.”

Rauls’ experience may have not been an enjoyable one, but he did learn his lesson.

“I quit doing drugs, I quit smoking, I quit chewing and I even quit drinking,” Rauls said. “I really learned my lesson.”

To all students considering the drug life, Rauls offers these words of advice: “It only gets you in trouble,” Rauls said. “Do not do stupid stuff.”

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Red ‘n’ Green

Thursday, March 31, 2011

High School

Money

Projector

Money is commonly stolen rom backpacks and lockers because it is hard o track.

School goes to great lengths to prevent fights, hate crimes

The most expensive item stolen from the Berlin Area School District ($10,000).

By Eric Wolfe and Amaerani Torres

makes school more appealing

Photo Submitted

uber Dorm is a large room that contains bunk beds, a TV and tables. Prisoners are free to play card games, ch television and converse with one another.

73 960

Page 5

“I fight to accomplish the goal of confronting people who talk badly about me,” senior Austin Broder said.

During the school day, teachers can encounter violent situations such as student fights, harassment and even hate crimes.

A hate crime is a crime against someone because of their race, religion or sexual preference. Hate crime often leads to a student fight.

These crimes now occur differently: through social networking or technology. Many believe that this makes it easier for students to bully other students and start fights.

In such situations, Principal Lynn Mork, Dean of Students Steve Stellmacher and Officer Doug Christensen take great measures.

“With technology today, if one student has a problem with another student it might start on the internet, but the actual confrontation often takes place on school grounds,” Principal Lynn Mork said.

Depending on the altercation, Christensen will investigate. If the fight or hate crime is serious enough, students may serve a severe punishment, such as getting suspended from school.

Other punishments for fighting or hate crime are detentions, a call to parents or disorderly conduct fines and attending court.

“We do not have fights in school very often. I think the students understand that the consequences will be severe, and they understand that fighting and hate crimes are just not going to be tolerated,” Mork said.

In Berlin High School, the two most common forms of hate crimes are crimes against race and crimes against sexual preference.

With groups like (STAR Students for Tolerance Acceptance and Respect), many believe that the Berlin staff and student body have gone to great lengths to prevent hate crimes and student fights.

Broder, who has been involved in over 30 fights, finds fighting a necessary step to get respect.

Broder acquired many injuries and had to wear an ankle bracelet due to getting in fights.

“A lot of the fights I do get involved in are over text messages.

Most of them are because people say too many dumb things about me,” Broder said.

Although the school cannot do anything about what happens outside of school, the no cellphone policy helps prevent situations from getting out of control during the school day.

“Even though I think hate crimes and fighting are a problem in Berlin High School, I think that the staff has done a really good job in preventing hate crimes,” junior Vong Vang said.

Some believe that teachers are not the only ones who can make a difference in preventing hate crimes or fighting in school. Good students can have a big impact when it comes to prevention.

A good way for students to prevent hate crimes and fighting at school is to speak out against things like racial or religious jokes and other instances of intolerance.

“We have been fortunate not to have many hate crimes or student fights at Berlin High School. Our students really get along well together,” Mork said.

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Red ‘n’ Green

Page 6

Thursday, March 31, 2011

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Mia Za’s Italian Cafe offers big bowls, small taste

By Karnpal Cheema

State Street, running through the heart of downtown Madison, is known for its shopping, art galleries and variety of dining options.

On a lovely March day, I, along with co-diner junior Amberlee Perry decided to visit one of the many restaurants on State Street.

Mere blocks from the state capitol, Mia Za’s Italian Cafe seemed like a delectible choice.

Soon after we entered the eatery, we realized what a grave mistake we had made. The first step of ordering at Mia Za’s is filling out a small form, which asks whether you would like pizza, pasta or panini.

The form also allows diners to make their own pasta, with the perk of plenty of hidden fees. Cheese?

No problem, it will only be $1.50.

Instead of complicating our orders, my co-diner and I decided to order off the menu: the chicken ceaser salad for Perry and the chicken alfredo with broccoli cheddar soup for myself.

When we handed our orders to the cashier, he was arrogant to say the least. Laughing at customer’s questions seemed to be commonplace at the cafe.

We quickly chose the table along the floor-to-ceiling window facing State Street. Although we were limited to one corner of it due to

uncleaned food spills, Perry and I seemed to make it work.

The window allowed in plenty of natural light, which was welcome compared to the somewhat dark interior of the eatery. Along with light, the window provided a fair amount of people watching, which slightly improved our experience.

The total for my meal was around $17. When our food was ready for pick up, I was taken aback by the huge portions, and assumed the $17 was well worth it. After Perry and I discussed our bewilderment at the size of our orders, we dug in.

Never had looks deceived me more than they did that day. At first bite, both Perry and I vowed we will never dine at this establishment again. The only ingredient I could taste was salt, and being at an Italian eatery, I expected to at least taste garlic. I then switched from my pasta to my soup, which was like taking

‘Several Shades of Why’ leaves no questions Photo: amazonnaws.com

By Caleb Draves For years, J Mascis has been known as the guy from Dinosaur Jr. with the long hair and guitar riffs played with redonkulous amounts of distortion.

Now, for the first time, Mascis has pulled out the old acoustic, and created debatably his most thoughtful, and delicious, album to date.

Subtly inspiring and sprinkled with guest appearances, Mascis’ record, at first listen, does not seem to be anything spectacular. It has been done before, guitar hero haphazardly turned singer songwriter. But, after closer inspection, this album is something special.

The attitude that ‘Several Shades of Why’ conveys is one that Mascis is known for: the challenges of youth. Although in his mid-fourties, J is still able to convince young listeners that he knows what they are going through.

“Several Shades of Why” is not overly sad like many acoustic albums, nor is it filled with catchy jangly pop hooks. It just is.

It is also an album of unanswered questions. “Can I,” “What Happened,” “Is it Done.” Questions merely are presented by Mascis but never truly answered, leaving the solutions to the listener’s imagination.

As Mascis’ time-worn voice crackles through track after track, his trademark indirect intensity is still present. But, what he normally conveys with raw electric power is now channelled into finger-picking goodness, which is a surprising choice for his debut acoustic album.

Another novice mistake made on acoustic albums is repetition. Listeners often are plagued with song after song of generic, lifeless chord changes with a tambourine or shaker thrown in. Mascis, however, incorporates a variety of interesting arrangements in his work, from

a full orchestra to a lone acoustic guitar.

All things considered, BBC Music writer Chris Lo sums up this album perfectly.

“Several Shades of Why’ drifts by like the caress of a summer breeze, and when the sun finally comes out, you could do a lot worse than finding a park and letting it roll over you,” Lo said.

Rating out of 5:

Photos: K. Cheema Amazed at the size of her chicken ceaser salad, co-diner Amberlee Perry gapes in awe. Soon after the first bite, the lack of taste also contributed to her amazement. a big slurp of the Dead Sea. It is true, one cannot expect both quality and quantity.

‘Revolution’ reads powerfully, leaves lasting impression

By Amberlee Perry To all the book lovers who would prefer to be lost in a book rather than stuck in their own world, and to all the readers who miss the characters immediately after reading the final page, pick up this book.

“Revolution,” written by historical fiction author Jennifer Donnelly, is a story about two teenage girls, Andi, who lives in present-day Brooklyn, and Alex, who lived in Paris during the French Revolution.

Because of her attitude and her horrible work ethic, Andi is sent away to Paris with her father for winter break. While researching a musician, Andi discovers Alex’s diary. Tempted by curiosity, she begins to read.

They may have lived two hundred years apart, but Andi discovers that the girls are surprisingly alike.

Both girls have encountered tragedy, and both lost a little boy who had been their whole world. Andi and Alex suffocate under the weight of guilt, and both girls struggle with forgiveness.

Exciting, bizarre events begin to intertwine the girls’ lives. The way Donnelly merges their lives into one is seamless. Since Donnelly offers no foreshadowing, even an experienced book reader would not be able to predict the twist in the story.

“Revolution” had many incredible quotes. The only time I put down the book was to write another quote. Every single sentence was written with extraordinary strength, to the point where I had to stop, breathe and re-

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Through Alex’s attempts to reach out to the little boy whom she had lost, she had a revelation. She recalled this revelation through powerful words.

Alex, alone in the catacombs under Paris, wrote, “I am not afraid of beatings or blood anymore. I am not afraid of guards or guillotines. There is only one thing I fear now--love. For I have seen it and I have felt it and I know that it is love, not death, that undoes us.”

History fanatics will love this book, but even if one hates history, this book makes it interesting! Donnelly takes real events from the French Revolution and places her characters in the middle of it all. Donnelly also writes of real people, including the royal family at the time of the revolution, and mixes their lives with her characters’ as well.

Reading this book, I remembered history lessons about the French Revolution, making it all the more exciting.

It has been said that “Revolution” is a love story. I agree that it is a love story, but instead of a love between two teens, it is the story of a teenage girl’s compassion for a defenseless child. In my opinion, that kind of love overpowers all.

“Revolution” is an amazing book that will have an incredible impact on the reader. Andi and Alex’s story will be remembered for a long time.

Rating out of five:

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Thursday, March 31, 2011

Red ‘n’ Green

Page 7

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Roving Reporter: What is the first thing you would do with $1 million?

“I would buy Six Flags, take all my friends there and have fun all day long,” freshman Jacob Smith said.

“If I had $1 million, I would buy myself a nice Mustang and a big mansion,” junior Devon Trochinski said.

Photos and text by Peter Schrader

“I would buy a go-kart track and a bunch of different go-karts and crash them all,” sophomore Bryce Pomplun said.

“I would hire a chef so I could eat something other than frozen pizza and Ramen noodles,” senior Austin Miller said.

“I would pay off my house and both of my sons’ college bills,” family and consumer education teacher Karen Macaulay said.

Ask the Nurse: What are the long term effects of dark soda?

By Terri Maul, RN, BSN Dark soda such as Coke® or Pepsi® are usually composed of carbonated water plus ingredients such as caramel color, phosphoric acid, natural flavoring, potassium benzoate, citric acid, sodium and caffeine.

Sweetening agents are also used: diet cola uses an artificial sweetener and regular cola uses a real sweetener such as sugar or corn syrup.

Recently, the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), a consumer watchdog group, asked the FDA to ban caramel coloring made from ammonia-based processes because of studies that showed some byproducts caused cancer in rodents. Caramel coloring is what gives dark cola its color, it does not add flavor.

Natural caramel coloring is made when sugar is heated until it becomes caramel colored.

Reacting sugar with ammonium compounds makes Caramel III and is used in beer, soy sauce and other foods. Reacting sugar with ammonium and sulfite makes Caramel IV and is used by Pepsi® and Coke®. Both Caramel III and Caramel IV contain 2-methylimidazole (2-MEI) and 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI). Large amounts of these elements were found to

cause cancers in mice and rats.

Most people would interpret “caramel coloring” to mean “colored with caramel,” but this particular ingredient has little in common with ordinary caramel or caramel candy -- it is a concentrated dark brown mixture of chemicals that simply does not occur in nature.

“The American public should not be exposed to any cancer risk whatsoever as a result of consuming such chemicals, especially when they serve a non-essential, cosmetic purpose,” FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg said.

Coca Cola disputed findings with studies that show that caramel as they use it does not cause cancer.

Studies show ammonia-processed caramel coloring has ingredients that may cause cancer in humans. It would take an extremely large amount of soda to give the same risk as that experienced by the rodents.

At the same time, it is already known that soda is nutritionally void and the phosphoric acid it contains erodes teeth and leaches calcium from bone. The sugar causes tooth decay and promotes obesity and diabetes. The caffeine is also problematic.

So be wise, drink water to quench your thirst.

Photo: A. Torres Zenku takes pride in his car, nick named “The Black Mamba,” even though many say it is a “chick car.”

By Amaerani Torres Sophomore Doni Zenku drives away with the “King of the Lot” title this month. Zenku cruises around in a 2003 Ford Mustang V6. This black beauty, also known as “The Black Momba,” was given to him by his parents last year.

“My favorite thing about my car is that it has leather interior, and it has a six-disc CD player with a really good bass,” Zenku said.

Although Zenku enjoys his car, he still does not like that it is a convertible, which makes it difficult to drive in the winter.

“The first time I got it, it snowed and I drove it into the ditch. It is not good in the winter, but I drive it anyway,” Zenku said.

Zenku and his friends spend a lot of time in his car. However, his friends often pick on him for driving a “chick car.” Chick car or not, this car still attracts attention because of its flawlessness. Still, Zenku plans to add a few more details.

“I plan to get a new exhaust on it and new tires,” Zenku said. Zenku and Black Mamba plan to stay together throughout Zenku’s high school years.

If you have a recommendation for King or Queen of the Lot, submit it to Ms. Kuehmichel in room T115.

Red ‘n’ Green

Page 8

Thursday, March 31, 2011

SPORTS Future Sports: Field features several possible Masters champions

By Quinn Thompson Previous Masters champion, Phil Mickelson, is prepared to defend his title at Augusta National Golf Club on April 7-10.

With the target on his back, he could have trouble maintaining his composure and coming through with another Masters win.

Mickelson may have to pass down the green jacket to one of these up-and-coming golfers.

Rory McIlroy, Martin Kaymer and Graeme McDowell are all playing for their first Masters win after missing the cut last year.

Their level of play since then has been exceptional. Look for them to be in striking distance come Sunday.

Lee Westwood and Anthony Kim finished second and third, respectively, to Phil Mickelson last year. Both players know how to play well at Augusta, so they both have a chance at the green jacket, as well.

Whenever there is discussion of the Masters Championship, Tiger Woods must be a topic in the conversation.

Coming off of the worst season of his career, Woods looks to regain his dominance by recording his fifteenth major and fifth Masters victory.

Woods finished tied for fourth at the Masters last year. It is only a matter of time before he wins another major and is feared by his opponents once again.

Also, look for Wisconsin native Steve Stricker to play quality golf at Augusta. He has a chance to record the first major victory of his career. At age forty-four, he is due for a major win.

Track athletes expect successful season

By Quinn Thompson

Track athletes are back to training and conditioning, hoping to have a successful season.

Senior Greg Stellmacher is a four-year veteran on the track team, and is confident that his final season will be one to remember.

“I think everyone will do well in the events they participate in.

Everyone has been working really hard and the coaching has been great,” Stellmacher said. “All of this hard work is going to pay off.”

Stellmacher competes in the four by one-hundred meter relay and the four by two-hundred meter relay with Jake Johansen, Ryan Doro and Matt Larson.

Senior Adam Schapekahm is also a four-year veteran on the track team and has aspirations similar to Stellmacher’s.

“I think our season is going to be a lot better than past years,” Schapekahm said. “Everybody is enjoying the sport and working hard.”

Six students competed against 22 schools for $1000 in the fourth annual Battle on Bago on Feb. 26. Berlin’s team consisted of juniors Jacob Wagner, Ryan Kautzer, Quinton Kautzer and seniors Sawyer Smith, Jacob Sedarski and Kyle Belter.

“People were allowed to fish on any lake in the area because of the bad ice conditions on Lake Winnebago,” Wagner said.

Berlin was coached by counselor

Greg Stellmacher awaits the handoff from teammate Jake Johansen.

As a veteran, Schapekahm un- pekahm, standout cross country derstands that a strong work ethic runner, Kinsey Harmon, has high is needed to accomplish any goal. hopes for her first track season.

“I prepare for the meets by lift“I am hoping that our team can ing weights, practicing hard and do really well because we have a not goofing off in practice,” Scha- really big team this year,” Harmon pekahm said. “I want our team to said. “We have a lot of talent.” have a positive record, and I want Harmon is doing all she can to to make the varsity team for shot learn from her teammates and put.” coaches, so she can have a successLike Stellmacher and Scha- ful first season.

“I do what the coaches tell me to do, and I train with the team,” Harmon said. “I work as hard as I can at what they tell me to do. I do the best that I can.”

Harmon competed in the one mile run at the Oshkosh Indoor Meet and seems to be enjoying her first track season.

“Track is really fun,” Harmon said. “Go Berlin Track!”

Home games moved to Ripon Carmelo

By Jenna Horn

The varsity Lady Indians soccer team coached by Don Demick and Denny Plantz has begun practice for the current 2011 season.

Due to the reconstruction of the varsity soccer field, Berlin girls “home” soccer games will be held at Ripon High School’s field.

Returning junior goalie, Megan Hess, believes that the field arrangements will be a slight disappointment because it will make it harder for fans to watch and support the Lady Indians.

The team lost a few girls from last season, but returning varsity players and new faces will keep the team in

Students fish out state title

By Jon Krueger

Photo: EDGE Photography

Matthew Willet and gym teacher Jeff Massen. “Fish hard” was Berlin’s motto going into the tournament.

Teams were allowed to bring back ten of their fish to be weighed. After the weigh-ins, teams were ranked by the total weight of their fish.

Berlin finished first in Battle on Bago with a total of 11.7 lb. The main catchers for Berlin were Ryan Kautzer and Smith.

“It means a lot,” Ryan Kautzer said.

Nobody expected Berlin to win with so many other schools there.”

Photo Submitted After a day of fishing, Berlin displays their catch. Berlin finished first in the fourth annual Battle on Bago, beating the second place team by 0.3 lb.

full force.

The girls practice after school, both indoors at Clay Lamberton and outdoors to prepare for their first game at New London High School that took place on March 29.

“I think everything should be good as long as we improve from last year and play together as a team,” Hess said.

The next game will be at Columbus High School on April 7.

traded to Knicks

By Eric Wolfe

Photo: EDGE Photography Junior goalie Megan Hess denies a kick by the opposing team on an attempted goal.

Short game key for success

By Jostun Pomplun The 2011 golf season is just around the corner. The team does not begin practice until April 4 due to weather, and their first match is already April 8.

The team has high expectations for the upcoming year, hoping to finish in the top three in conference.

“Individually, I would like to be able to shoot a 40,” sophomore Michael Falk said. “As a team, I hope we can beat Xavier for the first time.

Another goal for us would be to go to state.”

Even though the team lost outstanding golfer Austin Resop, the team has plenty of talent this year to be successful.

“We have three returning starters from last year,” Coach Conrad Falk said. “Those three will have to lead our team, and there will be good competition for the remaining two spots on the team.”

Improving on certain skills is always helpful for a successful season. The team knows what they need to work on from last season to improve this year.

“We really need to work on our short game,” junior Alex Hinz said.

“Berlin is really good at hitting long.

We just need to work on chipping.”

Falk also believes the team needs to be more consistent and to do better under pressure.

Golfers tried to get in some preparation for the start of the season. Falk went to Missouri to play some rounds over spring break, while Hinz hit buckets of balls in his field.

The team will compete in three different kinds of events during their 15-event season. They will play scrambles, best ball and match play events.

A scramble is where two players each hit a ball off the tee. They determine which shot is better and then they both hit from that spot.

This continues for every shot on the hole.

Best ball is where both players play the hole and they take the better score of both players.

In match play, each player is by himself, trying to get the lowest score possible. The players’ scores are then added to determine which team won the match.

After weeks of negotiations, on Feb. 20, the Denver Nuggets traded Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups to the New York Knicks.

The addition of Anthony and Billups will give support on offense to power forward Amar’e Stoudemire by creating more scoring opportunities.

Many see that with Anthony and Billups, the Knicks have a very good chance of getting into the playoffs.

“The Knicks wanted to get to the playoffs. With Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups they can do that. I see can them in the Eastern Conference finals,” basketball enthusiast David Alcorta said.

One of the benefits of having Anthony in the Knicks starting line up is that he poses a serious threat on offense.

“Carmelo Anthony is a very good offensive player,” Alcorta said.

Even though the Nuggets lost forward Carmelo Anthony and hometown favorite Chauncey Billups, some see the Nuggets benefiting from the trade.

“I think the trade is better for the Nuggets because Anthony was not that great at defense. I think they should use this season as a rebuilding year,” Alcorta said.

Now that the Knicks have Billups, Anthony and Stoudemire, some speculate that they will be the next dominant franchise.

“I think with their talented players the Knicks can go very deep into the playoffs in the years to come,” Alcorta said.