SteinmetzVolume 76, Number 5, February - March 2011Star

ByPrizes Aracely Ventura awarded for perfect attendance Dr. Eunice Madon, princi- pal, and other staff congratu- lated more than 150 students who acheived perfect at- tendance with an award cer- emony and a pizza party on February 15. The students were enter- tained in the small auditorium by two dancers, Fist Pump (Raymond Masciopinto) and Bones (Hector Gonzales). Attendance director Re- nato Roldan raffled off many prizes, including a CD player Continued on Page Two Dr. Madon congratulates Jennifer Jimenez and Alfonso Cervantes, who won TVs in the raffle. Area science fair winners Shorter day go to city competition next year 2011 - 2012 Bell Schedule

Sophomores Astrid Vargas, Saul Zamora and freshman Araceli Mojica By Damian Januchowski versus 5 Hour Energy.” Sophomore Astrid Varges’s project is “I tested energy drinks, measuring heart “The Effect of living cancer cells tested beats, and determined which drank gave with daidzein and curcumin.” the most energy,” Saul said. “I picked the topic because I thought “The science fair was boring, but cool it would be helpful for the people who to meet new people and see a lot of other have cancer and don’t know what to do smart people. I did this project because “The reason I picked this project is it related to get better,” Astrid said. “So these phyto I like energy drinks. They help me stay how sodium chloride affects germination of chemicals were tested to see if they have a awake during school.” seeds and the environment,” Araceli said. positive effect.” Freshman Araceli Mojica project is “Going to regionals was a scary, but fun Saul Zamora’s project is “Monster “How salts affect seed germination.” experience.” Steinmetz Principal’s Message Academic ‘Be here — all day, everyday’ Centre Continued from Page One 3030 N. Mobile player, wooden nickels, movie passes Chicago, IL 60634 and two flat screen TVs. Tel: (773) 534-3030 To finish it all off, the students were Fax: (773) 534-3151 invited to the lunchroom for pizza, sal- ad and pop from La Villa pizzeria. www.steinmetzac.com Mr. Roldan said he wasn’t surprised Principal: Dr. Eunice Madon with the amount of kids that achieved Assistant principals: Jaime Jaramillo, perfect attendance. Donald Mendro, Lynne Nuzzo “There are good kids in the school Budget director: Paul Chase who love being here,” he said. Star adviser: Sharon Schmidt He said he’s hoping for even more MICHELLE MASON BY Renato Roldan and Laura Jimenez organized students second semester. There will be the perfect attendance celebration. Editor-in-Chief: Adriana Pineda, another perfect attendance campaign. Alyssa Sanchez Seniors need 90 percent attendance in raffling prom tickets, luncheon tickets 1st & 5th period section editors: order to attend the June graduation cer- and extra seats at graduation to seniors News: Zachery Pekovic, Jonathan Lopez emony. Every month the school will be with perfect attendance, Roldan said. Photo Opinion, Forum: Natalia Twardus, Nia Spencer Features: Regina Crawford, Jasmine Reese Sports: Demetrius Robinson-Stanford, Celebrate perfect attendance Damian Januchowski with an award winning movie Journalism class reporters, Room 333 1st Period: Julio Baez, Jordyn Bailey, Des- tiny Carpenter, Nohemi Caudel Raygoza, Make it in Financial Aid Jovanna Espino, Sarai Fernandez, Michael March Workshops Frackowiak, Myraneisha Gardner, Michael Be perfect from Complete your FAFSA Hodges, Takara Johnson, Larissa Labon, Fran- March 1— March 29 with your parent. See Ms. Jabour ces Lopez, Michael Lublansky, Yaritza Mar- and get treated to a roquin, Xavier Morales, Yadira Olea, Lukasz for an appointment. special screening of Olszanski, Rosemary Peralta, Tetyana Pran- “Louder Than a Bomb” Thurs. March 10, 4 - 6:00 nychuk, Gabriela Rodriguez, Alyssa Sanchez Sat., March 19, 9:00 - 1:00 Jasmine Sheppard, Rafael Totolxin, Xaquille (featuring Steinmetz) on Thursday, March 30. Mon., March 21, 4 - 6:00 Townsend, Natalie Valdez Tues., April 5, 4 - 6:00 5th Period: Grzegorz Bara, Louis Bell, Food, drinks to follow. Danielle Brumley, Brittany Ferguson, Sayda Figueroa, Kierre Gillespie, Michelle Mason, Jennifer Maravillas, Manuel Mejorado, Gloria Quintana, Stephen Powell, Cindy Vazquez, Lisette Madrigal, others win Cindy Yousif, Oscar Zarate

Newspaper club reporters: Jason Alvarado, honors at city competition Datrin Butler, Arrick Cosey, Kiara Davidson, Submitted by Karen Craig, Band Director having surgery on her fingers, elbows, Christina Deer, Ja’Tavian Davis, Eunice Di- Hardworking band students competed and arms. Even in such a a weak condid- mas, LaRon Gadlen, Malica Lacy, Celimar in the CPS Instrumental Solo Festival on tion, she pulled this off. Lopez, Daniel Mendrano, Michael Newson, February 26. [See our feature on Lisette, page 13]. Stephany Robles, Saremm Saenz, Charnae Senior Lissette Madrigal received an Sophomore Tanya Madrigal received Turner, Jeremy Valentin, Aracely Ventura Honors Superior, which is the highest a Superior. Junior Veronika Scott re- award possible. There were only three ceived an excellent. This was her first The Steinmetz Star welcomes submissions Honors Superior awarded out of hun- year competing. by all students and staff. Email us at dreds of performing students. They all worked extremely hard to SteinmetzStarNews @ gmail.com Lissette just returned to school from prepare for this festival.

2 Steinmetz Star February - March 2011 Star Photo Opinion “What gives you butterflies in your stomach?”

BY NATALIA TWARDAS, ALYSSA SANCHEZ BY ARACELY VENTURA BY GRZEGORZ BARA “When I am about to record music “When I see all my friends “When I’m around the “Tests. Getting in trouble. Thinking they and my friend is about to say some- and family having fun.” love of my life.” called your house. First basketball game.” thing like “Ooh, that’s whack!” Denzel Brown, Lexus Castro, Earl Billingsley, junior Daniel Saenz, freshman sophomore sophomore

BY NATALIA TWARDAS & A. SANCHEZ BY GABRIELA RODRIGUEZ, A. SANCHEZ BY ALYSSA SANCHEZ BY ADRIANA PINEDA “When I am next to a boy I like “When the guy I like holds “Alyssa gives me butterflies “Heights give me butterflies in and when he flirts with me I get me close. Also, every time the because she’s my wife. Even my stomach.” even more butterflies!” name of that special someone though she doesn’t give me Toby Urian, security Stephanie Garriga, junior pops up on my phone.” kisses I know she will always Mariana Sandoval, senior be there for me. Baseball also gives me butterflies when I first start playing the game, but Star Poetry Do you have an opinion? when I’m close to the end I’m Contest more relaxed.” Send us your best work Share it with the Star! Joey Cornell, senior by Friday, March 25. Respond to anything in this papaer or just We’ll print our tell us what’s on your mind. See Page 4. favorites in April Email us: [email protected] (National Poetry Month).

February - March 2011 Steinmetz Star 3 Star Forum Division students make great grades WOW! Take a look at Division A315! 1. Over 61 percent of these students passed all of their classes. 2. Forty-two percent of these sophomores earned at least one “A” or even more: One “A”: Arely Trejo and Jalissa Spinato Two “A’s”: Alberto Baylon, Dariusz Kwasnik, Furqan Muneeruddin, and Educardo Rivera Three “A’s: Victor Alicea Four “A’s”: Kevin Mendoza Five “A’s”: Mayra Ocampo, Angelica Ward, and Wendy Flores Six “A’s”: Faizan Ahmed **Straight “A’s”: Iriz Ilumin** 3. Good job, Division A315! I’m proud of you! No wonder you’re Number One! Loni Dorall, teacher PHOTO BY IVELISSE COTO BY PHOTO Seniors: ‘Absence policy unfair, exteme’ To staff and readers of the Seinmetz Star: over us seniors. I also feel as if this new This isn’t a plea for truant students to get I’m here to speak up about what many rule has no compassion for the seniors a free pass. It’s a plea for the seniors who seniors are probably already complaining who just plain have bad luck. If we miss work hard for our grades but know this new about. The new 90 percent attendance pol- the bus during our scramble out the door policy is extreme. icy for seniors that has been implemented. every morning, there goes half a day of our So, now that I have made my argument I I realize the administration wants to push attendance because of matters we cannot ask my fellow seniors to speak up. I know students to understand that attendance is a control. Or the 7:20 bus is full and the bus deep down all the seniors agree to some de- key to education. Yet it seems to me instead driver passes your stop, well I guess that gree that this policy is a little out of whack. of facilitating our path to graduation, the just makes us out of luck doesn’t it? I know Veronica Rojas, senior administration is only finding more ways to the response will be as I have heard from hinder our journey across the Copernicus Center stage. It is a moment that many of We aren’t superheroes. Food choices us are dreaming about and in my own per- And even if we were, Re.‘Vegetarian teens need food choic- sonal opinion it seems to be bringing down es’ by Jennifer Maravillas, Nov-Dec 2010 the atmosphere around our class. It doesn’t superheroes make Becoming a vegetarian isn’t the only seem to be as happy as it should be. mistakes. way to help animals, but it is a good Will a lot of us have to settle for a diplo- way to start. My opinion on having more ma, but no satisfaction of the cheers from many an adult “Take an earlier bus.” vegetarian choices: It’s a good idea! Al- our families? What is failed to be understood is that though I’m not fully a vegetarian yet, I’m I feel it’s unfair that this is our last year sometimes these things happen and we have slowly making the transition by eating as and instead of us striving to get that per- no control over them. It’s also ludicrous less meat as possible. fect finish, we’re getting all these worries that ALL of our absences count against us There are many people in our school pushed upon us. Seniors have enough to even if they’re excused. As much as a lot of who either are or want to become vegetar- worry about with getting our credits in us would like to be, we aren’t superheroes. ians, but eating a meat-free lunch at our order, finishing up service learning hours, And even if we were, superheroes make school is hard because Steinmetz hardly filling out college applications, filing for mistakes. And now we are subjected to a provides these kinds of lunches. I believe scholarships, paying for prom, and getting punishment that is our moment in the spot- the school should help those students by our perfect senior memories without this light taken away. We’re subjected to a fear providing them with healthy lunches that new rule hanging over our heads like a big that no underclassmen will have to endure don’t contain meat. Just because it’s been black cloud. until their senior year. Not only that, but a that way forever, doesn’t mean it’s right. Not only that, but it is ONLY hanging fear other CPS school seniors don’t have. Gabriela Pineda, freshman

4 Steinmetz Star February - March 2011 Star Forum Black History month: ‘Who do you admire?’ India Arie, musician Rosa Parks, activist By Amanda Gidney Being a natural-haired sister “The First Lady I sometimes can’t find an artist of Civil Rights” or role model that understands By Adriana Pineda what is going on with me and In honor of Black History can relate to the things going on month, the Star pays tribute in my life. to “The First Lady of Civil I find that power and under- Rights” and “The Mother of standing in the music of India the Freedom Movement,” Rosa Arie. She is a strong and em- Parks, the brave woman who powered woman of the music refused to give up her seat on Industry and I love her music. a Montgomery bus to a white I performed her song “I Am Not passenger. My Hair” last year at the talent “People always thought that show and the crowd loved it.. I didn’t give up my seat be- “I Am Not My Hair” (1st cause I was tired, but that isn’t verse): true. The only tired I was, was ple (NAACP). She has become Little girl with the press and change my life tired of giving in,” Parks stated an important symbol and icon curl To become the women that I in her autobiography, My Story. of the Civil Rights Movement Age eight I got a Jheri curl am inside Parks was arrested and and resistance to racial segre- Thirteen I got a relaxer Ninety-seven dreadlock all charged for violating the Segre- gation. I was a source of so much gone gation Law of the Montgomery Rosa Parks died on October laughter I looked in the mirror City Code. This action sparked 24, 2005. However, her memo- At fifteen when it all broke off For the first time and saw the Montgomery Bus Boycott. ry will live on forever through Eighteen and went all natu- that HEY.... Parks did a lot more than the people she helped and ral To me it just says that mak- start a boycott. She also collab- through the changes she helped February two thousand and ing changes in my appearance orated with several civil rights make. two to appeal to the crowd was leaders, such as Martin Luther Rosa Parks said: I went and did wrong and I am able now to King Jr., and worked with the “Memories of our lives, of What I had to do accept myself for me and build National Association for the our works, and our deeds, will Because it was time to more self-confidence. Advancement of Colored Peo- continue in others.” Raw Talents celebrates freedom, culture

Malia Crosby (left) and LaRonda Gadlen (third from left) and 10 other students joined members of the Chicago Westside Branch of the NAACP to honor the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the Chicago History Museum on January 17. Members of Raw Talents, including Laquisha Nichols, Lake- “The trip helped the students connect culturally,” said sponsor Debra va Duncan, Kearrica Cosey, and Nikala Kelton (with Ms. Kern), Kern. They participated in hands-on activities, exhibitions, and attended will perform Wednesday, March 2 after school to raise money performances and a reenactment of Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech. for historically black colleges and universities.

February - March 2011 Steinmetz Star 5 Star news

ByDedicated Lillian Sangha students in Decathlon Not only do some students do extra homework and projects re- quired by the IB program, they study even more for the Academic Decathlon team. “Being on the team helps you do better on tests,” senior Shawnelle Jacskon said. Students learned new mate- rial in all subjects, focusing on the Great Depression for history. “These students worked very Left photo: Rosanna Cueto, Abigail Baylon and Jennifer Uruchima hold the trophy awarded to Lisette Garcia. hard,” club sponsor Davoud Chit- Right photo: Lisette Garcia, Rosanna Cueto, Abigail Baylon, Jennifer Uruchima, Lillian Sangha, Christine saztehrani said. “They put in many Pflanz, Franciso Urista hours after school on the week- last month, but the results are still not finalized The super quiz and meeting students from ends, and often gave up lunch.” since organizers made errors on two students’ other schools were highlights of the competi- The decathlon team competed answer sheets. tion. Speakers share gang consequences By Celimar Lopez missing school. She started Saalim Williams and Vannessa gang banging at the age of 9. Quintanilla aren’t your average She was only 13 when she was people. They’re both paraplegic, shot. paralyzed from the chest down, “I felt bad for them,” sopho- because of injuries from gang- more Sheyry Lopez said. “Be- related gun shots. cause life goes on and they have They spoke about their situa- to depend on someone else all tion to more than 300 students on the time for the rest of their February 16. They are speakers lives.” with the group “In My Shoes.” After explaining her injury Saalim explained how he and and long recovery in the hos- other paraplegics need to use pital Vanessa addressed the is- catheters and enemas to eliminate sue of retaliation. She said she waste. He talked about difficulties realized that revenge “won’t do paraplegics face with bed sores nothing.” PHOTO BY CELIMAR LOPEZ BY PHOTO and being unable to cough out SHANKS ANTHONY BY PHOTO “All it will do is make anoth- mucus in their lungs. He shared Saalim Williams, paralyzed at age 19: “I made friends with the er mama cry,” she said. how difficult it is navigating a streets. I should have stayed away.” Vannessa Quintanilla, The students who heard Van- wheel chair on crooked surfaces, paralyzed at age 13: “I lost my youth. Don’t lose yours.” essa and Saalim’s stories under- in homes and on the streets. stood their message. Saalim started drug dealing to make “It’s hard on your pride,” he said. “In “I think it is sad that a person is shot and money, then became affiliated with a gang. Chicago you’re treated like an old Doritos paralyzed for the rest of their life over a One day when he was 19 another gang bag.” stupid choice made when younger,” sopho- member stole his bike. When he went to go Saalim’s life was great growing up. His more Anthony Shanks said. “I know the look for it, a fight broke out and he got shot mom was a Cook County sheriff, his dad pain of what it is to lose something due in his back. The spinal injury is permanent. owned two gas stations and he was a Boy to violence. My best friend was murdered Vannessa Quintanilla is 19 years old Scout. But his mom got cancer and his life when I was 13 years old and due to non- and is also paraplegic. Vannessa’s child- just got hectic. His dad had a lot of bills to sense he will never go home to his family, hood wasn’t as good as Saalim’s. Her dad pay. He lost his gas stations and money was or be able to live the rest of his life.” was in jail and her mom worked a lot. She a real problem. Saalim’s mom died when Overall, Saalim and Vannessa’s life isn’t got bored of school and started cutting and he was 12 years old. Continued on next page

6 Steinmetz Star February - March 2011 Star News Security guard returns after injury By Adriana Pineda and report any wrong doing. Many people don’t to understand what a dan- That is exactly what security guard gerous job our security staff have. Many think Richie Hernandez was doing on Thurs- all security do is walk down the halls and tell day, November 4, 2010, when he re- students to put their IDs on and remove their sponded to a fight in the floor. hats and coats when they’re not suppose to have “Two kids were beating up another them on. Although this is true, security are sim- kid.” Richie said. ply doing what they’re getting paid to do, which According to Richie, the two kids start- is enforce school rules. ed running at the sight of security and he However, security staff do more than just this. pursued them as they headed to the sec- They deal with uncooperative individuals and ond floor. respond to risky and dangerous situations. This “The two kids jumped from the stairs also applies to police officials who work in our to the landing, so I did too,” he said school. However, Richie didn’t land correctly Security work is not easy. It’s a job full of Richie twisted his ankle, causing tendi- risks of injury and even death, depending on the nitis. Due to the severeness of his injury, situation. The primary goal of security guards is Richie had to leave Steinmetz to recover. to stop criminal activity and maintain order on He was out for almost two months be- the premises they are in charge of securing. They fore returning on January 3. Steinmetz is must enforce regulations and provide security. happy to have Richie back. For these reasons, security staff observe, protect PINEDA ADRIANA BY PHOTO Richie Hernandez Supporting ethical treatment of animals By Adriana Pineda views and opinions on animals Peta (People for the Ethi- and their support to Peta. cal Treatment of Animals) is an “I believe all animals deserve American animal rights organiza- the same rights and respect as tion founded by Ingrid Newkirk human beings, Gabriela said. “It and Alex Pacheco in March, 1980. hurts me to know animals are be- Over 2 million people have joined ing tested on and brutally killed and supported Peta over the years. for food and fur. People don’t Peta, and its secondary, free- realize that animals have feel- for-all organization, Peta2, have ings just like us. If they do, they focused on helping animals from choose to ignore that fact.” all kinds of mistreatment, exploi- “I’m very involved when it PHOTO BY ADRIANA PINEDA ADRIANA BY PHOTO tation, and abuse. Freshmen Ivanna Lorenzana and Gabriela Pineda support comes to the prevention of animal “Animals are not ours to eat, PETA. To learn more visit Peta.org or Peta2.com. cruelty. I support Peta2 because it wear, experiment, or use for our has given me a new perspective entertainment,” Peta says. on how I look at animals and their rights,” Ivanna added. Freshmen Gabriela Pineda and Ivanna Lorenzana share their Peta2 isn’t the only encouragement Gabriela and Ivanna have when it comes to stopping animal cruelty. “My favorite lead singer, Christofer Drew from Never Shout ‘In My Shoes’ speakers Never, supports Peta,” Gabriela said. Ivanna stated that her favor- Continued from previous page ite band, Pierce The Veil, is also a strong Peta supporter. what they hoped for. They wish they could take it all back but Both Gabriela and Ivanna encourage students to join Peta and they’re still living life as everyone should. the struggle to help end animal cruelty. Saalim is working and going to school for his GED. “I think everyone should join Peta2 because it’s a great orga- Vannessa got her GED and she’s working in office nization. It informs the public of how unfairly society treats our administration. She’s going to go to college for criminal animals,” Ivanna said. justice. Saalim has a son (who was 9 months when he was “Peta2 is an awesome organization to join if you’re interested in shot) and Vannessa has a daughter who is 18 months. They’re helping animals,” Gabriela says. “They give you options on how teaching them (and their audiences) not to “make friends with to help make a difference. Also, its free.” the streets.”

February - March 2011 Steinmetz Star 7 Talent Show: February 10

PHOTOS BY JOVANNA ESPINO & MICHELLE MASON

ExpressBy Christina Deer yourselfday. Music is withlife and life is music.music Music more entertaining than music. Nothing can How does music make you feel? Does is everywhere. Even aliens have their own ever replace music. It would be so impos- it make you feel good, sad, happy or glad? little musical groove. No, seriously they sible. Music makes who we are. Or does music just get you hyped or mad? do. All you have to do is go to outer space Did you know inside our body there is Music helps people express themselves in and see for yourself. Okay, I’m just kid- music? We’ve got the heart that makes many different ways. It’s like a therapist ding. up this smooth thumping sound. We have but in song. Music is what keeps people on their feet. these thumbs that make up these hot bang- Music is in the soul of everybody on Music is what makes me who I am. Some- ing popping noises. Also, these feet that earth. Even animals have their own style of times I wonder what the world would be make this rock hard stomping sound. music. Yes, it is hard to believe but its true. like without music? Well, you do not want Music is everywhere and is in every soul. Have you ever walked outside and heard to know. Music is an everyday thing. Peo- Music is life and would always be around. a little chirping sound that sound like a ple everywhere listen to music. Teenagers Nobody can stop the making of music. chorus? Well, if so those are birds singing. are the main people who listen to music. Why? Because it is impossible. Some tried Everybody has music in their soul and has Music is like an idol to some teens. it but it never worked. Music will always their own style of music. Music is in every Music been around for years and years. be around and lets enjoy every minute of it. living thing on earth. Music has been around since Earth was Music is life and life is music. Music is like an energized bunny. It created and formed. There is nothing better keeps you moving and going through your than the great sound of music. Nothing is

8 Steinmetz Star February - March 2011 Talent Show: February 10

Bump that song By Christina Deer The Top 25 songs at Steinmetz: Chris Brown — No BS Lil Wayne — 6 Foot 7 Foot 8 Foot bunch! Cee-Lo Green — It’s okay Bruno Mars — Grenade Nicki Minaj — Moment 4 Life Khalil ft Lil Twist — Hey Lil Mama Chris Brown — Yeah 3x Cee-Lo Green — Forget You Keri Hilson — Pretty Girl Rock Michael Jackson ft Akon — Hold My Hand Poetry slam team performs Willow Smith — Whip My Hair Whacka Flocka — No Hands at Louder Than a Bomb Rihannna — What’s My Name Twista ft Chris Brown — Make a Movie R. Kelly — When a Women Love Wiz Khalifah — Black and Yellow Ne-Yo — One in a Million Jazmine Sullivan — 10 Seconds Rick Ross ft Styles P. — BMF Chris Brown — Look at Me Now Kicking Daisies — Keeping Secrets Katy Perry — Fireworks Ke$ha ft 30H!3 — Blah Blah Blah Keri Hilson — Breaking Point Mindless Behavior — My Girl

February - March 2011 Steinmetz Star 9 Star Features “How does music inspire you?”

PHOTOS & INTERVIEWS BY CHRISTINA DEER

“I love music. It helps me express myself. “I enjoy R&B and rap. My favorite “I enjoy R & B and hip hop, also old Music is my life. It helps me get through song is Drake, ‘Show Me a Good time.’ school. My favorite artists are Lloyd my problems. I love Chris Brown and Music inspires me to do better in class. I and Michael Jackson, also Mike Rihanna. My Favorite radio station is recommend ‘Thank Me Later’ by Drake. Posner. My favorite song is ‘Lay Your 107.5.” Joseph Reese, freshman Head Down’ by Lloyd. Tavonna Howard, freshman Zaina President, freshman

“I enjoy hard rock alternative, also hip “I like all types of music. Depending “I like blues and jazz. It helps me to hop. Music motivates me to get things on what mood I am in I listen to certain calm down.” done and work out. I like 3-6 Mafia. music. My favorite radio station is Brad Dowling, teacher Rob Rittmeyer, teacher 99.5.” Kimberly Daughenbaugh Kid Cudi’s music: If you want to chill By Xavier Morales on http://www.djbooth.net/says. Everyone knew him as Mr. Day N Nite Other music that students are listening from his freshman album Man on the to include Rick Ross‘s mixtape “Ashes To Moon, but now Kid Cudi wants you to Ashes,” Tyga’s “Well Done” mixtape and acknowledge him as Mr. Rager with his Kanye West’s fifth album “My Beautiful 2010 Man on the Moon 2. Dark Twisted Fantasy,” an improvement His music makes you just chill. from 808’s and Heartbreak. So if you “Cudi has this ability to make extremely haven’t heard about them, you should melodic and catchy songs that people can listen to them . easily zone to,” music critic Nathan Slavik

10 Steinmetz Star February - March 2011 Star Features Jasmine Maldonado: Someone you should know By Frances Lopez Out of all the people in school, I chose to Her favorite things to eat are french interview senior Jasmine Maldonado. She fries, enchiladas and pizza. She also likes has a fun personality and I thought others drinking slurpees. should get to know her, too. “I love slurpees — they make me happy,” During Jasmine’s free time she likes to she said. go out with her friends and have fun by When she grows up she wants to become going to parties, shopping, movies, out to a veterinarian because she likes animals eat and laser tagging. and helping them out. If she could visit She even plays PS3 “Black Ops” and any place she wanted it would be Hawaii “Mario Brothers” on the Wii. She also likes because she likes the beach and warm to have time for herself and go to the gym. weather. After all that she likes to take her naps.

Black OPS a creative Hard drinking drama game girls like, too

By Natalie Valdez Out of so many games around the world, Call of Duty Black Ops has been highly popu- lar among not only young individuals but adults as well. This game’s popular- ity has been proven when it broke a re- By Jennifer Maravillas cord by selling more What started off as another low budget reality TV show, Jersey than 7 million copies Shore turned into one of the most watched shows of 2009-2011. the first 24 hours of The premiere of the third season had the highest ratings out of the its appearance. entire series. This unique game takes place in Cuba during the Cold War Almost everyone in Steinmetz has seen it and uses the slang of 1960s. The president at the time John F. Kennedy (JFK) terms used by the cast. Some of the most used words “grenade” gives players different missions to complete. (an ugly girl) and “smush” (sexual intercourse) have become “People might think it looks and sounds easy, but you re- commonly used terms. ally have to have skills to play it,” senior Angelica Gallardo The show has gained so much popularity so quickly that some said. may wonder why and how a show all about Guidos and Guidettes “Yes, girls can play Black Ops too,” she said. has made such an impact. This game can be played in different modes, as single “It is funny and nice because they are put in a house with all player or multi-playersz, and online with other individuals Italians and they have to live with each other but this makes them as well. party and go wild doing stupid stuff,” senior Jesus Sanchez said. “Its fun because when you play online with friends it “Which makes it awesome with drama.” makes it more interesting,” senior Richard Alegria said. Jersey Shore has mainly attracted viewers of the ages 14-25. Certainly this game will make history because of its amaz- The reason being, all of the drinking, partying, and drama. ing creativity and entertainment. “They be getting it ‘crackin,” senior Jasmine Sheppard said. “They be drunk. That is entertaining.” MTV really hit the jackpot with Jersey Shore. Catch new episodes of Season 3 at 10/9c Thursday nights on MTV.

February - March 2011 Steinmetz Star 11 Star Features: Student Profiles Being a mother is hard, filled with happiness by Sayda Figueroa Since he was born Angel made me into When I first had my son Angel I couldn’t a responsible women. Now whenever I’m believe a baby was coming out of me but it having a bad day or things aren’t going was true. It was hard in the beginning be- right my son makes me happy. I laugh with cause I was alone with only my father and the things that he does till this day. I still my sister there to support me. My mom is can’t believe it but I have a kid now some- in Honduras. thing to look forward to and give a good It was very hard for me because I was future to now. My son has both mother and still in school so it was hard looking for a father. babysitter. I wasn’t just going to leave my He has us both and he has everything he son with anybody. I had to know them well needs. We try our best to make sure he has and able to trust them. everything he needs. His father works. It was also very hard waking up in the It’s hard because I have to wake up re- middle of the night feeding my son and ally early to take Gabriel to work, then go changing his diaper. The next thing you back home and get ready. Then I have to know it was time for me to get up and go to get my son ready to take him to the baby- school. I would barely get some rest and I sitter. After that I go to school feeling so had to do it all by myself. tired. It’s hard because I don’t have time to I still kept on going to school, I didn’t rest because I go home, clean up then I start Angel will be one year old on March 9. stop. I didn’t change my mind about school cooking, I do my homework. I make sure I just because I got a son. I have to give him When my son’s father Gabriel Vasquez get my school work done. Being a mother a good future. came back to Chicago to live with us things is hard. It is a challenge. You have to be My son has made a big difference in my got a little easier because he would stay ready and be prepared to be a mom. So if life. He is a blessing. Watching him every- with us. He would stay with Angel while you ever want to have a baby think about it. day and being there with him everyday was I was in school but even though I would My son is a blessing, He is the one that something new and he would just get big always have this feeling. It was always me makes me happy and always keeps me hap- and fat. and my son. py no matter what.

ByWorking Cindy Vazquez students plan for their futurehave to work very late and the next day Senior Janeli Quijano is a student who wake up early to come to school. I wish I works after school and has many plans for had some time to spend with my friends the future. She has been in Chicago since but I never do. I also have to do home- 2007 and is working hard to achieve all her work and sometimes study for tests when goals and succeed in life. I get home from work and that is very Q: If you could, what would you change hard because sometimes I feel sleepy and about your life? tired. A: I wish I lived in Mexico because my Q: Have your grades gone down? mom and brother live there. I also have all A: No, my grades have stayed the of my friends that I left there when I came same because I always try to do my to the United States. I like living in Mexico school work when I am in school or more than I do living here. sometimes I stay after school to finish. I Q: What is your job like? don’t have the grades I wish I had like all A: I work at a Mexican restaurant and A’s but they are OK. At least I am pass- my job is to take food orders, clean tables, ing all my classes. I would prefer to go mop the floor, be at the cashier and to make to school than going to work because sure people get great service. I work on school is going to prepare me so in the Thursdays 6 to 10 p.m., Fridays 6 p.m. to future I can get a better job. Working is 12 a.m., Saturdays 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. and good too because it gets you money, but Sundays 5 to 9 p.m. I think school is better because it can get Q: Is it hard to study and work? you farther in life if you attend college. Janeli Quijano A: It is very hard because sometimes I Continued on the next page

12 Steinmetz Star February - March 2011 Star Features: Student Profiles Bryant Gutierrez deals Lissette Madrigal with a serious illness plans for music career By Yaritza Marroquin By Yadira Olea Senior Bryant Gutier- Senior Lissette rez is not afraid to talk Madrigal is a great about things in his life he person, very unique. is going through. There She stands out without aren’t many students that even trying just by be- would like to share about ing herself. their health and how dif- She is small and she ficult it is to suffer from dyes her hair in dif- a serious illness. ferent shades of blues Bryant has missed a and purples. She might lot of school due to the seem small and quiet, fact he was in the hospi- but she has no prob- tal and did not have the lem speaking her mind strength to go to school. when she needs to. While in the hospital, Obsession with pan- family and friends vis- das is an every day ited him to comfort him thing. She eats, sleeps, BY YADIRA OLEA and reassure him every- BY YARITZA MARROQUIN and dreams pandas. A: I want to really, re- him everything was going to schedule for my next medi- Q: Why do you change ally, really, really bad. I want be fine. cine. your hair color constantly? to be a music teacher and Q: Where do you see your- Q: Do people treat you dif- A: I change it because I teach grammar students. Till self in 10-20 years? ferent than before? like to stand out this day I go back to my el- A: I see myself in the medi- A: Yeah, it’s different. In a Q: When did you start ementary school and tutor the cal field as a doctor because of good way though. I see more your interest for music? young ones. They remind me my personal health issues. In support from my family and it A: I started in fourth grade. of myself in my struggles to the year 2010, I was diagnosed also changes my family’s at- I was the only little fourth learn how to play. with kidney disease. I want to titude. It can get stressful for grader playing a instrument Q: Have you been accept- be able to help other people them when it comes to figuring that was bigger than me — ed to any colleges with any with the same thing I’m going out what to eat or not. the trumpet. I’ve been play- scholarship offerings? through. Recently, things are getting ing for eight years and gone A: I have been offered a Q: How does kidney disease better for Bryant. There has to competitions. scholarship to Concordia make you feel? been a big improvement on Q: Are you in any activities University. If I accept it I will A: It can be stressing, chal- his health and he is free to eat that involve music right now? receive $7,000 per year. lenging and dangerous be- food he couldn’t before. How- A: I am in the marching Lisette is still waiting on cause you have to watch your ever, he still has to watch what band. I assist Ms. Craig. I two other schools to inform nutrition. he eats. The doctor says if he blow on my whistle and cue her if she is accepted. She’s Q:What do you like to do in keeps this up the disease might the drum line when to begin not sure of where she is going your free time? go away. Little by little Bry- playing at the moment, but one thing A: Online video games. It’s ant’s life is getting better. Q: Do you plan on pursu- is certain, she is going to pur- weird, but I like to plan my ing music as a career? sue music as a career. Working students sacrifice much to save money Continued from the previous page cause we need it for everything and we can college and get a career as a psychologist. I help the people that need it. want to help my family. I hope I can bring Q: Do you like working? Q: Are you saving money for college? my mother and brother to the United States A: I do like working because I don’t have A: I have an account in the bank but I with me. I haven’t seen them in a while to be depending on my parents and when I don’t have enough money to pay for col- and I miss them. It is very hard living away have money I can buy anything I want. I lege. I will have to keep saving . from your family especially your mother can also help my parents with money like Q: What are your plans for the future? because she is supposed to be there with paying for bills. Money is very helpful be- A: My plans for the future are to go to you and help with any problems you have.

February - March 2011 Steinmetz Star 13 Star Features Make fashion a part of your life By Jasmine Reese “I have to look good no matter what,” sophomore Bernette Lewis said. At Steinmetz everyone shows their own unique style. To add some style to their uni- form shirt they choose attractive purses and shoes. Some students wear scarves, head- bands and bracelets. Another way in showing your own style is your hair and nails. That’s one of the big- gest in the Steinmetz halls. Everyone wants to keep themselves up and look nice. “Getting your hair and nails done is a PHOTOS BY JASMINE REESE must,” junior Brittany Robertson said.

Best season ever for Streaks basketball Submitted by Coach Brad Dowling timeout, the team was instructed to put on a dif- The second half was a different story, however, The boys basketball team experienced one of ferent press than the one it had used the entire as the well-rested Schurz team came out strong the finest seasons in the history of the school. game. The strategy worked to perfection, as the and prevailed over the fatigued Streaks team. The team was projected to be a top team in the Streaks outscored Jones 17-2 down the stretch, The team then came back from break and conference but behind preseason favorite Sch- turning a ten-point deficit in the final three min- rolled through the conference leading up to urz. utes into a 67-62 victory. a televised game for the conference champi- The boys got off to a good start and never The next test came during the Schurz Christ- onship between that same Schurz team. The looked back. They opened up the season reach- mas tourney. The boys won their first three stands were packed with hundreds of students, ing the championship game in the St. Benedict games without much difficulty leading to a numerous teachers, and the band. The team Thanksgiving tourney. At the time, only team semi-final showdown versus St. Benedict, who trailed by six points at halftime 26-20, but be- captain Pierre Baptiste had any real varsity ex- had previously beaten them. The Streaks were hind the tremendous support of the crowd and perience, which proved costly, as the talented down one point at half time, but had a strong, band dominated the second half, leading by as but inexperienced team let a fourth quarter lead gritty effort in the second half and avenged the many as ten points, and ultimately winning 54- slip away, falling to St. Benedict in the Thanks- earlier loss. 49. The victory led to the team claiming the giving championship game. The victory put them in the championship school’s third conference championship in just One of the more memorable games during game versus archrival Schurz. The Streaks, six seasons. the season came the next week versus Jones. however, had only about twelve hours rest from As the coach of three championship teams, Jones dominated much of the game, and had a the previous night’s victory, whereas the Sch- I can say this was probably the least talented 14-point lead in the second half and was ahead urz team had two full days of rest. The Streaks and least likely to win a championship. But by 10 points with just over three minutes to didn’t let that bother them in the first half as De- they overcame the doubters time and again and play. The Streaks scored a basket to cut the lead metrius Robinson-Stanford hit a three at the end proved they were much more than meets the to eight and then called a timeout. During the of the half to give the Streaks a seven-point lead. Continued on next page

14 Steinmetz Star February - March 2011 Star Sports Bowling team fun, exciting competition By Takara Johnson “I like coaching the girls,” The girls bowling team had coach Frank said. “They are a good season. As a team we good bowlers and always have showed commitment and good their grade checks in on time. As attitude when it came to our their coach, I coach them to be games and practices. better bowlers and I don’t have “I like being on the girls to worry about these intelligent bowling team and cheering my young ladies. No hassles with teammates on,” senior Michelle them like with the football play- Mason said. ers.” We held our games at Wave- The team cheers each other if land bowling alley and our prac- we get a strike or a spare. Even tices at Monte Clare bowling al- if you didn’t get any pins at least ley. Bowling on the Steinmetz you tried. team is a fun activity to do after Michelle Mason, Yajaira Quinones, Kassandra Badillo, Emily The Silver Streaks all have school. Irizarry, Takara Johnson, Charnae Turner different styles like curving the “Being on the girls bowling team is fun and exciting competing ball and putting one foot behind the other. Some turn to the side for against other schools,” senior Yajaira Quinoes said. “I love bowl- a better chance of the ball going down the middle. ing with the girls and always having fun at practice.” There were nine girls on the team: Lillyanne Medina,Takara Coach Sergeant Frank taught us how to follow the arrows when Johnson, Michelle Mason,Yajaira Quinones, Kassandra Badillo, throwing the bowling ball. Also, he told us to slow down and take Emily Irizarry, Charnae Turner, Marye Rodriguez and Yubady our time. You don’t have to rush into it. Escobedo. Most wins for Streaks Healthy eating + basketball exercise = weight loss By Grzegorz Bara I lost 33 pounds in only one Last summer vacation I de- month. cided to lose weight. I weighed Later, I took little break be- 233 pounds, too much for my cause my body was exhausted height, which is 5’11. and I even started bleeding I started to eat healthy food from my nose. in small amounts a few times As of today I attend Bally’s per day. Basically I cut out Total Fitness everyday. On chips and candies that contain Mondays, Wednesdays and Fri- a lot of calories. I also gave up days I lift weights and run. On fast food and sodas. Tuesday and Thursdays I swim. PHOTO BY LARON GADLEN LARON GADLEN BY PHOTO I motivated myself by watch- I do different exercises every- Demetrius Robinson-Stanford, Sammie Gage, Frank Bland ing bodybuilders and figuring day. Continued from previous page Streaks, 21-8). out what would be the best way I am still improving my eye. They overcame numer- They have surprised many to succeed and improve my goals. I lost about 60 pounds throughout the season and ous fourth quarter deficits to body shape. I spent two hours and I’m really happy about it. It prevail over bigger teams, we’re hopeful they aren’t fin- ished yet. As a result of win- per day working out and 30 feels great to be in better shape. and have used their depth and ning the conference the team minutes of running when it was There are a lot of teenagers teamwork as a key ingredient has earned the right to play in about 80 -100 degrees. out there who face a problem to the dominant 22-4 record one of the toughest divisions To help myself burn more with obesity. Approximately [at Star press time]. in the country next season: calories I wore my sweater 19 percent of children (ages The players were intent on the Chicago Public Schools which helped me to burn more 6–11) and 17 percent of adoles- winning 20 plus games before “RED” division. The same di- calories while running. After- cents (ages 12–19) were over- the end of the season. They’ve vision of the likes of Simeon become the winningest team (Derick Rose) and Farragut wards I even went to play soc- weight in 2000, according to I’ve ever coached (previous (Kevin Garnett). cer for two to three hours to the USDA. best was the 2005-2006 be in better shape. That’s how

February - March 2011 Steinmetz Star 15 Star Sports Boys and girls Streaks basketball

ConferenceBy Louis Bell & Kierre Gillespie champs! The boys basketball team did great this season with a record of 22-4 [at press time]. Even better than that we won conference with a 9-0 record. The Streaks won conference three years ago and now we are back again. “This season is going very good because everybody on the varsity had their break out game,” senior Xaquille Townsend said. “When we are in prac- tice we work hard, and it shows when we play,” Senior Demetrius Robinson-Stand- ford had an excellent game against Schurz on February 15 in a practice game to get ready for the state tourna- ment. “I was angry and I knew the team PHOTO BY MICHELLE MASON needed a lift so I played like I play at the YMCA,” Demetrius said. “This Even though everybody contributed to all of the wins, the top scoring averages for the sea- season has been good but I know it son were Pierre Baptist with 12.2 points per game (ppg), Sammie Gage 11.4 ppg, Frank Bland could be better. It wasn’my best sea- 10.3 ppg and Armond Minniefield with 5.8. son but the team is still winning.”

Going downstate PlayersBy Oscar Zarate are proud Team members are proud to be part of the glory of the var- sity basketball team. “Being part of the basketball team is a privilege since many people who try out don’t make the team which makes it spe-

PHOTO BY NIA SPENCER NIA BY PHOTO cial to be part of it,” said senior Amber Dukes, Kelly Spivey, Ariel Johnson, Tara Busby Manny Martinez, member of By Alyssa Sanchez the varsity. Ariel Johnson is going downstate on March 3. Manny said teacher Brad She will compete against the other top 33 girls in the state in a Dowling is a great coach who 3-point shoot out, an individual competition where players shoot wants his players to do their best and enjoy playing the sport 15 balls in 45 seconds to make as many 3-point shots as they can. they love. Ariel qualified for the state competition after advancing in four “Training is hard but is a good way to become better and previous competitions, held at Maine East and Maine South high learn new skills,” Manny said. He believes the team has all it schools, where she scored 8’s and 9’s. She said her whole family needs to continue winning and overcome all obstacles in the will be joining her at the downstate tournament. future. “I think I’m going to win,” she said, while also admitting that “Winning the Conference Championship feels great and the she is nervous and plans to continue to practice. She said she’d like Steinmetz varsity basketball team deserves it because other to celebrate with the team and her family. schools wish they could be in the same spot as us.”

16 Steinmetz Star February - March 2011