Romeoville High School

SPARTUSSPARTUSSPARTUSMarch, 2019 Vol. 55: #5 Proud to be Spartans A Creepy, Kooky, Mysterious, & Spooky Night on the RHS Stage By Cody Matthew Schaff It’s March, which means that Lucas’s parents, Alice Beineke, it’s musical season at RHS. This played by Kyra Savage (11), and Mal Beineke, years musical was The Addams played by Zach Smith, are a struggling couple, Family. Over the last two weeks, the that later end up finding themselves, or rather RHS thespians put on a terrific show the people they used to be. you didn’t want to miss. There are also characters that are a In case you’re unfamiliar with part of the family like Wednesdays the plot of the show, it’s basically little brother, Pugsley, played by about Wednesday Addams, played Lexi Goldman (10), Uncle Fester, by Alyssa Justalero (12) who is getting played by Ezekiel Martinez (11), and married to Lucas Beineke, played by Grandma Addams, played by Sierra Michael Molek (11). The Addams Crownhart (11). Family invites Lucas’s family over for When the two families meet, dinner, but Wednesday only tells her and have dinner, Lucas’ family is dad about the engagement. forced to follow the Addams tradition Wednesday’s dad, Gomez which includes a game, where you Addams, played by Carver Miller (12), drink ‘”The Drink”, and you open up is never supposed to lie to his wife, about personal things, and that’s Morticia Addams, played by Emma when the real fun begins. Kloss (11) but instead he does, which Overall it was an extremely enter- causes a conflict later in the show. taining night in the RHS theater. From

the terrific performances of all the cast, to strong musical numbers and fun choreography, the audience certainly got their money’s worth. Whether on stage or behind the scenes, congratulations to every- one who put in so much time and effort on this year’s production of The Addam’s Family. Time to Look Forward to Spring with the March RANDOM Issue HOME PAGE 2 Editorial: Losing Touch with the Truth The patient is on life support become inconvenient, it has become and the family of Man has been an idealistic principle no longer called to the bedside. The only hope relevant to “the real world,” or so many SPARTUSSPARTUS is some divine intervention of hon- people think. But are they right? Editor-In-Chief esty, integrity, and responsibility. We begin the March RAN- Mary Ridderhoff Doctors are not optimistic. DOM issue with a story about conse- Assistant Editor It is a critical time for the quences, and a hope that divine Clorissa O’Brien truth. It has become a liability, it has intervention will quickly occur. Reporters False Accusations and Real Consequences Illiana Alvarez, Dekari Barber, By Samantha Bestwina A false accusation could ruin first girl accused him of assaulting Samantha Bestwina, David someone’s life. her in July 2017 at the pool. The 26 Chmura, Eduardo Fulgencio, Zach In 1955, a 14 year old, African page lawsuit alleges that the boy, Gibson, Jayden Gutierrez, American boy named Emmett Till, “was forced to endure multiple court Estaphany Hernandez, Jessica was said to have whistled at a white appearances, detention in a juvenile Jacobs, Allie Melone, Dannica woman in her family’s grocery store. facility, detention at home, the loss of Moore, Samantha Moreno, She claimed that he grabbed her and his liberty and other damages until Allyssa Noble, Helena Null, verbally threatened her, and he told several of the girls reluctantly admit- Julian Ortiz, Jesus Quiles, her he had been with white women ted that their accusations were false.” Aryanny Ramirez, Jeremy before. Three days later, her husband He was hit with another RamosAnais Renteria, Alexis and brother-in-law abducted Till and accusation of sexual assault months Rivas, Cody Schaff, Elexis Vasquez, tortured him to death. later when a friend of the first girl told Aaron Vega, Vivian Vidad Four months after a trial a school official that he sexually where they were acquited by a jury of assaulted her at her home. The boy Photographers their “peers,” (and because of this was further damaged from “gender Mary Ridderhoff, Elexis Vasquez couldn’t be tried again), Till’s mur- bias” from school officials, who, even after learning the girls’ accusations derers, Roy Bryant and J.W. Milam, Advisor confessed their guilt in a Look were false, “did not take any action Mr. Chuck Niebling magazine article for $4,000. The two against the females involved,” said Literacy Administrator men beat him nearly to death, attorney Craig Fishman. “Once the Ms. Kristin Augle gouged his eye out, shot him in the allegations were proven false, they Department Chair head, tied his neck to a fan with really didn’t care one bit about the Ms. Elizabeth Birmingham barbed wire and then dumped his boy and there has been absolutely no Special Thanks to body in the Tallahatchie River. repercussions against the girls.” The Print Shop It wasn’t until 2007, when The girl that accused him of Bryant’s sister , the accuser, was 72, sexually assaulting her at the pool The SPARTUS is the student told her classmates that she would newsmagazine of Romeoville High that she admitted her lie to Timothy School and is published for the students, Tyson, Duke University senior “do anything to get [the boy] ex- staff, and residents of the RHS atten- research scholar, that Till never made pelled.” This led to students bullying dance district. Editorial content is solely any verbal or physical advances on him. In one example, provided by the the opinion of the staff and does not her. In his book, The Blood of Emmett lawsuit, somebody taped the word necessarily reflect the views of the Till, Tyson writes that she told him, “PREDATOR” on his back during a faculty, administration, or any organi- “Nothing that boy did could ever choir practice. zations other than the SPARTUS. justify what happened to him.” The boy is now being As the SPARTUS is an open forum, False accusations with harsh homeschooled and suffers mental letters to the editor, independent consequences are still happening to health problems, the boy’s family features, and guest editorials are invited this day. A group of five high school claims. and encouraged. They can be given to girls in Pennsylvania confessed to Obviously, all accusations are any SPARTUS member or placed in the targeting a boy with false sexual not false, and we need to thoroughly mailbox outside room 42. Names must assault allegations just because they investigate every one BEFORE we accompany all submissions; but, they “don’t like him.” The false accusa- judge. But while the truth may not set can be withheld on request. tions led to the boy being fired from you free. the consequences of lies can his job at a swimming pool after the be much, much worse. 3 RANDOM NEWS & NOTES Don’t Worry - It’s Just Another App to Keep Kids Engaged By Helena Null With the popularity of social kill themselves. Blue Whale was linked cat’s eyes. The cat prompted the boy media, it’s no surprise hackers have to at least 130 teen deaths in Russia. to remove his finger because it discovered ways to entice children Apps like Talking Angela and couldn’t see. The boy then closed out and lure them towards danger. The Talking Tom look appealing to kids. of the app but heard a clicking sound Momo Challenge, Blue Whale game, and They are mobile phone games that as if his phone was taking pictures. Talking Angela app have resulted in allow kids to have a conversation with These viral games have been harm and even death. Young social an animated cat. Hackers have blamed for hundreds of deaths and a media users are encouraged to altered the app in a way that allows few kidnappings all around the globe. disappear for hours, hurt themselves them to interact with the kids and We need to pay closer attention and or others, and even commit suicide. take pictures and videos of them stop just playing games. The Momo Challenge uses through the device camera. The app platforms like Whatsapp, Facebook, runs in the background so the hacker Everything Old is New Again Fortnite, and Youtube Kids to send can continue spying on children even By Steph Hernandez anonymous threats and frightening after the app has been closed. Zoom Our generation is taking a images of a women with bulging eyes in and look carefully at the eyes, you blast to the past. The 90’s and early and bird legs. Over time kids can be can see the hacker in their room. 2000’s fashion has been appearing in urged to take pills, go into the oven, Kids have been asked their recent trends over the past couple harm themselves or others, and cause ages, where they live, what their years. Below is a list of nineties pieces pain to family pets. Children are parents’ names are, and if they’ve had that even you may be wearing. asked to provide pictures for proof of their first kiss yet. A four year old girl * Barrettes - these colorful hair task completion and are threatened and a seven year old boy disappeared accessories are extremely popular that their friends and family will get shortly after downloading Talking and not just for kids anymore. injured if they tell their parents or fail Angela and their parents place the * Patched Denim- popular stores to do the assignment. Kids as young blame on the app. In another case, a who are known for their jeans have as 12 have fell victim to this viral form boy was talking to Angela and hap- been coming out with patched style of cyberbullying. pened to place a finger over one of the jeans and starting a new trend. The Blue Whale game assigns * Corduroy - this winter season a lot an administrator to participants and Spirit Week / Have Fun of models and brands have been wearing corduroy jackets and pants requires them to agree to completing By Elexis Vasquez This week RHS is hosting a to keep warm and look fashionable all 50 challenges. Challenges start with at once. small things like listening to a certain spirit charity week. There will be themes for during the school day and * Mom jeans - say goodbye to skinny song and watching horror movies all jeans and hello to mom jeans night to participators being told to there will be after school activities almost everyday, with all the proceeds * Tracksuits- it’s the year 2000 and going to charity. This spirit week was you’ve just bought a juicy sweatsuit, Stop the set up by Leadership. life is good. To begin, Monday will be * Chokers- an accessory to make Bullying pajama day, with an escape room anyone look more put together. night starting at 5:30 P.M, Different * Champion and Adidas brands are clubs will each have their own escape now overpriced that they are back in room and students will be able to go style and using the demand of to different ones in groups of their vintage clothes from our generation choice. There will also be a dodgeball as an advantage. tournament beginning at 7:00 P.M. * Fishnet tights -often worn under Tuesdays theme will be jersey day, ripped jeans. and the after school activities are the * Overalls - Gru’s minion, who? different sporting events. Wednes- * Scrunchies - worn as bracelets or as day, the theme is Heritage day. a hair accessory. Thursday we have college day For more information or to * Trousers - baggy pants that are a Report Bullying & and a choir concert in the audito- lot more comfortable than jeans. rium at 7:00 P.M. And finally, Friday Safety Concerns we have an RHS spiritwear day, with, * Windbreaker - colorful or neutral, weather permitting, the most exciting windbreakers make an outfit appear after school event of the week, another put together and vintage. www.vvsd.org/rhs powderpuff. This will begin at 6:30. * Velvet/Suede - you can never go or talk to a staff member So c’mon, and have some fun. wrong with soft clothes. RANDOM NEWS 4 Art Can Soothe the Mind and Soul The Future is Coming By Samantha Bestwina By Elexis Vasquez Art can help give a voice to the Art therapy might be used for Being a junior or senior, you thoughts and feelings that are not children with learning disabilities, start to realize how close you are to easily expressed in words. people with behavioral disorders, being out in the real world. It doesn’t Art therapy is a form of psy- people with mental health problems, matter if you’re going straight into chotherapy involving the encourage- people suffering from a brain injury, or working, the military, college or ment of free self-expression through for someone that has experienced a anything else, it’s a scary time for painting, drawing, or modeling. Art traumatic event. everyone. For our seniors, they are can be used as an effective tool in You don’t need to have talent to supposed to have a decision made of mental health treatment to help be successful in art therapy. The art is what they will be doing starting next people relieve stress, reduce symp- used to reawaken memories, reveal fall, by May 1, just two months away. toms of anxiety and depression, and the unconscious mind, and to tell If you’re planning on going to express their emotions. stories of the client’s life.The art to college, the numbers can get really “The task of therapy is not to therapist may use a variety of methods overwhelming. Some things that you eliminate suffering but to give a voice like painting, coloring, sewing, can be doing to help with that is to it, to find a form in which it can be drawing, sculpting, and collaging to applying for scholarships. If you’re not expressed. Expression is itself help the client. The therapist observes sure where to start, the guidance transformation; this is the message your work as you are creating it, then office always has packets filled with that art brings. The therapist then will ask what thoughts or memories local and national scholarships that would be an artist of the soul, working you had while creating the artwork, almost anyone can apply to. Another with sufferers to enable them to find and how you feel. way is to use the websites Niche.com, the proper container for their pain, Art therapy provides a safe space Scholarships.com and Fastweb.com. the form in which it would be embod- to explore art in your own way and On another hand, if you’re ied,” said Stephen K. Levine, Profes- portray your inner experiences, not thinking about college, or even sor of Social Science at York Univer- support change, and develop personal just taking some time off, there are sity in Toronto, Canada. awareness. also many ways to find jobs. The guidance office also always provides The Recent New York Abortion Bill Explained information about local job fairs. By Clorissa O’Brien There are also websites that are very On Jan. 22, 2019, the New born at 12:05. In New York it is now helpful with finding jobs and making York government passed a law perfectly legal to murder me at resumes, such as Snagajob.com or allowing abortion after the first 24 12:04.” Indeed.com. weeks of pregnancy. Headlines all over the internet No matter what you’re Roe v. Wade in 1973 ruled that and news are showing only a part of planning to do after high school, there it was unconstitutional for states to what they know will spark up conver- are always people around to help you ban abortions. Pro-choice groups sation and often are not dealing with figure it out. Every staff member at said women should have the right to the specifics of the bill. The NY bill RHS is willing to talk to you about decide what they do with their body. allows women to abort only if the your future and help you figure out Although abortion was legalized patient is within twenty-four weeks what’s next. All counselors’ doors are throughout the US, most states put from the commencement of preg- always open to talking to anyone limits on when and what circum- nancy, or up to the day they are born only about anything. As the year comes to stances a women can abort. if there is an absence of fetal viability, an end, and some of us move on into The controversy with New York or the abortion is necessary to protect the real world, all of this is very is that they are allowing the mothers the patient’s life or health.” The bill important to remember. to abort their baby all the way up does not allow women to abort their until the day they are born. All over child just because they want to at any “With the signing of this bill, the news people are seeing headlines given time. The bill also repealed a we are sending a clear message that of “NY Legalizes Abortion up to section of their penal code saying it whatever happens in Washington, Moment of Birth” and “The push to was “illegal to administer or take women in New York will always have legalize abortion to the moment of drugs with the intent to cause a the fundamental right to control birth.” There is even a photo with miscarriage. their body,” said Governor Andrew text over a baby’s face reading “I was Cuomo. 5 We Better Start Eating - and buying - More Apples By Illiana Alvarez SpaceX Race For the first time in 16 years There is considerable competi- By Jayden Gutierrez Apple has reduced revenue expecta- tion price-wise in China that Apple Ever since SpaceX launched tions since poor sales of Apple’s needs to consider. Apple announced their Falcon Heavy Rocket on Feb 6, iPhone products have occured within December’s shocking quarter rev- 2018, they have been hard at work China in December of 2018. enue which came in at about eight completing 24 missions. “The iPhone is something billion less than expected. Apple SpaceX (Space Exploration that everyone knows and buys, and if shares are down at almost 5% to start Technologies) is a private aerospace people aren’t buying it, then that’s a off 2019. Since Apple’s sudden manufacturer and transportation pretty good sign they’re having a hard warning to investors, lowering its services company founded in 2002 time,” said Mark Zandi, chief econo- first-quarter revenue guidance, many by Elon Musk, well known for being mist at financial service company, are claiming Apple’s announcement the CEO and owner of Tesla Inc. At Moody’s Analytics. Apple’s poor to be raising more questions than the launch in February the payload sales performance in 2018 has answers. for the rocket was Musk’s midnight - effectively set the company back In December of 2018, China’s cherry Tesla Roadster. three years. With China being court had banned sales and imports SpaceX has since launched Apple’s third largest market, it is one of nearly all iPhone models running satellites, resupply missions, and had of Apple’s most profitable regions. from models of the iPhone 6 through more test launches. On April 4, 2018 “[Price cuts are] a smart iPhone X. Apple’s latest flagship they launched the Dragon Resupply and necessary strategy for Apple as iPhones include iPhone XS, iPhone Mission (CRS-14). It was a commer- this is an installed base story going XR, and iPhone XS Max, which cial resupply mission to the Interna- forward and core services growth will currently do not appear to be affected tional Space Station. Dragon saw its be driven off that premise for the next by the court decision. return on May 5, 2018. SpaceX has decade,” said Wedbush analyst Though Apple has been also launched many satellites. Daniel Ives. openly blaming China for marketing SpaceX continues to grow and troubles, they have been keeping advance in their silent on the performance in India. space explora- Bulls & PETA The Economics Times reports a tion. To get more By Julian Ortiz information Rodeo for many people plays a recent sales drop there up to 50%. It is unclear what Apple will try to do in about future big role in their lives but not everyone launches, check may agree with it. India. Maybe just release the XXX out the SpaceX Every year the Sears Center has website. an event they host called Professional MaximumMax15. People will buy it. Championship Bull Riding where the So Really - What’s in a Name toughest bull riders get on the By Vivian Vidad meanest bulls. Many people go to see In the world of business, * Hitler Chicken and enjoy this event, but every year there have been many cases where * Dog & Cat Repair there is a group of people who stand business names just weren’t the best. * Juan in a Million outside the stadium and protest. Sometimes intentional, and often * Frying Nemo This group of people are a unintentional, these businesse are * The Codfather part of an organization named PETA. frequently outed on the internet * Ditcher, Quick, and Hyde: Divorce They protest this event because of the for their name or logo. Namely, a few Lawyers treatment of the bulls. PETA claims like these: * Sam and Ella’s that the cowboys use electric tasers, * Passmore Gas & Propane spurs, and bucking straps that irritate * Amigone Funeral Home the bulls in order for them to buck. * Tequila Mockingbird The protesters get there an hour * Chew-N-Butts before the event starts in order to * Stubbs Prosthetics & Orthotics catch the fans attention before they Curl Up & Dye * Curl Up & Dye Salon enter the stadium to watch the bull * Thai Tanic riding. SALON * A Salt & Battery Fish and Chips Although it is a peaceful * Little Hope Cemetery protest, many people disagree with * I’ll Cut You Hair Studio this group. And the rodeo goes on. * Boring Business Systems RANDOMNESS 6 Can’t Touch This - but You Can Read It By DeKari Barber Rap’s wrapping the world in spinning tracks that incorporated Eminem, J Cole, and even Kanye rhymes that aren’t straight out of a rhythm and rhythmic speech in the West are just a few artists that have Dr.Seuss book, but are packed with beat. And as people began enjoying changed rap into something more thoughts, emotions, and ideas. the flow of his beats, others began loved by the people. Rap has become one of the most creating rap songs that would revolu- But credit should always be revolutionized genres of music within tionize the world forever starting with given to the ones that started it all the music industry after starting off The Sugar Hill Gang and their song and have made it into what it is today, as something not quite accepted by “Rapper’s Delight,” a song used in being able to express their life, society. The rap game has definitely movies and shows like Kangaroo Jack feelings/emotions, and changed from more lyrical rap in the and Everybody Hates Chris. even addressing world 80s,90s, and early 2000s to a less “When it came out, nothing problems all through lyrical rap age from 2010 to the was the same afterwards; it made rhyming words behind present. But all that aside most everything else possible,” said writer a beat. people have heard of rap or listen to it Harry Allen. on a day to day basis. The song became the catalyst of Just like everything in the world, the rap genre world that encouraged Feelin’ Lucky? there’s an origin that rap came from more rappers to come up to the rap By Aryanny Ramirez that ignited the evolution to what it is scene. Soon famous artist like RUN- Superstition is the excessive today. And for rap that origin goes all D.M.C, Slick Rick, Salt-N-Pepa and credulous belief in and reverence for the way back to the late 70s. the infamous N.W.A would make supernatural beings. Superstitions Dj Kool Herc, born and raised in their mark on the rap game. have been around since ancient times Rest assured rap has and have evolved into what we know the Bronx during the 1970s, was a Dj today. Here are four popular supersti- during his teenage years. He is said to changed significantly from when it tions and their origins: be the father of hip-hop due to him first started. Iconic artist like Jay Z, * It’s bad luck to walk under a ladder.This originated 5,000 years ago Choose Your Education Wisely in Ancient Egypt. When a ladder is By Jessica Jacobs leaning against a wall forms a tri- Choosing the right college is a investigate what the college offers. angle and Egyptians viewed triangles crucial step in a student’s career Financial aid is a critically as sacred. Triangles represented the path. But choosing the right college important part of college. It’s avail- trinity of the gods, and to pass can have its challenges. There are able at every school that you would through it was considered disrespect- just a few things that will help you want to attend but some schools ful to the gods. decide what college is right for you. make it more available, and some * The number 13 is unlucky. It has One thing that affects what have a greater variety of aid options. its origins in Norse mythology. In a college you choose is the curriculum. Finally, don’t forget to look at well-known tale, 12 gods were invited Does the college that you are looking the academic standards of the to have dinner in Asgard, the city of at offer the right courses for your college. What are the average test gods. The god of strife and evil, Loki, areas of interest? Are there options scores needed to be accepted? You crashed the dinner, raising the might have to emphasize other number of people to 13. As a result, for you if those interests change? Balder, the favorite among them, was Finally, how is the college rated for attributes to the admissions office if killed. the degree program you might your test scores are not quite there. * Knocking on wood. The origin of choose? And how is the college ranked - for this goes back to Pagan times when Another thing that might affect the day when you want to put your the Celts believed that gods and where you go to college is size. You degree to work. spirits stayed in the trees. By knock- need to figure out if you want to go to Choosing a college is stressful ing on the tree, they were rousing the a smaller or larger school so you don’t and making sure you make the right gods and spirits asking for their get overwhelmed. Smaller schools decision can often feel like a daunt- protection. can offer more personal attention, at ing task. Don’t rush the process. And * Tossing a coin into fountains. In larger schools you can get lost in the the final tip is don’t be a follower. You ancient times, fountains and wells crowd. Also a social life is a big part of need to remember to make the best were considered home to the water college because you can’t spend all decisions for yourself and not just spirits. People would throw coins as a your time studying. Decide what follow your boyfriend/ girlfriend or way to thank the gods for good health activities or sports you want to do and best friend. Good luck. and clean water. 7 SENIOR SNAPSHOTS Ms. Alyssa Justalero Mr. Joseph Vazquez By Mary Ridderhoff and Cody Schaff By Allison Melone Funny, intelligent, and musically gifted: these are Joseph Vazquez, known to most as Joey, is not just some terms to describe Alyssa (AJ) Justalero. only a kind person & great student, he is also a guy that AJ is loved and respected by many and is described will always make you laugh. as, “One of the most beautiful souls,” by her friend Maddy “Joey’s been my go-to guy since freshman year, Kinzer (12). and throughout these years he has grown into such an Throughout her senior year she has taken many amazing person. I can’t wait to see what he accomplishes rigorous classes such as AP Literature, Pre-Calc, AP in the near future,” said good friend Angela Cwynar (12). Euro, Honors Anatomy, Percussion II, AP Studio Art, and Joey takes many challenging classes like AP 8th hour Madrigals/Vocal Jazz Ensemble. European History and AP English 12. He also is in the Regarding AJ’s art and growth as a person, her Wi1co program for Criminal Justice and a part of Leader- teacher Mr. Stanich said, “She has always had a good ship Homeroom. One of Joey’s favorite teachers, Dr. Moro, work ethic and her skills and creativity have definitely said, “Joe is a dynamic student who brings energy and blossomed. She’s taking impressive risks and through that character to the classroom. He is an intelligent young her skills have grown tremendously. man and a pleasure to teach.” Even with all her difficult classes, AJ still finds time Not only is Joey busy during school, but he also to continuously work hard in Marching Band, hold a lead keeps a very busy schedule after. He is in many clubs and part as Wednesday Addams in RHS’ production The sports such as Leadership, Student Council, Football, and Addams Family, and be a prominent member within our is a School Board Liaison. Thespians club where she has gifted us with both her kind Joey’s goals after high school are moving to soul and beautiful singing voice. She is also a RHS Chicago to attend UIC and studying Criminal Justice. He Representative/Liaison for the school board.When she plans on joining the National Guard after his freshman departs from RHS she plans to go to college as an art year & his overall goal is to become a federal agent for the major/graphic designer and get into the Disney program U.S. Marshals. When asked where he wants to be in 10 for graphic design. years he said “I just want to be happy, living a successful AJ’s final words to RHS and 1ife and have a growing advice to all underclassmen is to, family.” “Join everything and take risks, Talk His last words to RHS: to people and learn more about the “Always try everything community around you. Adversity once, and always be builds character and through learn- involved. Don’t be afraid ing something new about an occa- to express yourself, and sion, place, thing, or person, it helps surround yourself with better you in one way or another.” people who will always support you.” Mr. Daniel McRaven By Elexis Vasquez Daniel McRaven. A name that During his time here, he has formed many rela- has made a beyond grand impact at RHS. Daniel is tionships that will last a lifetime. One of his favorite described by his classmates as a “charismatic, passionate teachers, Mrs. Summer Rio, says, “Danny has displayed and one of the most wholehearted students in the school, exceptional creativity and leadership in Digital Photogra- he lights up every room he walks into.” Not only has he phy II and AP Art History, his genuine passion and talent, participated in multiple clubs and sports throughout his for art and design is evident in the effort he extends. I can four years here, but he has managed to keep over a 3.5 not speak highly enough about him.” grade point average and keep a spot in the top 10% of his In the future, Daniel will be attending a four year senior c1ass. university; he has been accepted to over ten colleges and Some of the activities Daniel has participated in is still making his final decisions. He would love to attend inc1ude soccer, boys volleybal1, managing girls volleyball, a school in Chicago and is currently leaning towards Leadership, Senior Council, Math Team, and NHS. Just Loyola, studying a major in business and a minor in this year, he has taken on positions such as Leadership photography. Vice-President, Senior Class President, and works with Daniel’s advice to everyone is, “Have a passion for the Village of Romeoville to represent RHS in a student something and pursue it. Continue to evolve and try new liaison position. things that make you happy.” CHATROOM 8 Mini-Opinion #1 Mini-Opinion #3 If you could change one thing about high school, what would it be? Who is the most influential artist of this generation?

Tia Martin (10) - The time we start school. Zach Miller (12) - Drake. Robert Mark (12) - Parking for free. Anthony Demoyos (12) - Kanye West. Julio Garcia (12) - I would have played football. Joey Vazquez (12) - Mac Miller. Dustin Janicki (10) - How stressful it is. Kyle Ficket (12) - Eminem. Sierra Crownhart (11) - Gearing the classes more towards Brian Williams (11) - J Cole. what students want. Francis Mendoza (12) - Chance the Rapper. Eden Lesentine (11) - More diverse electives. Marcella Zwolinski (11) - Ariana Grande. Zoey Anthony (10) - The drinking fountains. Darius Campbell (11) - Youngboy Never Broke Again. Victoria Dutkiewicz (12) - I’d change the days you had to Alvaro Casas (12) - Polo G. go to school. Jonathan Perez (12) - Tupac. Taylor Sanders (11) - More windows. Jeremy Padilla (11) - Kendrick Lamar. Amelia Vidad (11) - How far away the classrooms are. Abdullah Shoaib (11) - Brittney Spears. Mila Gedzhova (10) - Make ROTC mandatory for everyone. New Stuff is on the Way Gamers Izzy Perez (11) More lunch options. By Illiana Alvarez Here are the top 5 most anticipated video games Linsey Pelekoudas (12) Less drama and negativity. being released in 2019. Jesse Rodriguez (12) - Going to it. 1. The Last of Us II By video game company Naughty Dog, this sequel is Mini-Opinion #2 expected to be released late 2019. However, though many dramatic and violent trailers have already been released, If you could switch lives with someone - who? many believe the game’s release date will be delayed to early 2020, based on the previous history the company Leslie Perez (12) - My cousin, because she gets to spend has with releasing games. The Last of Us II takes place more time with my family. five years after the first game. Elijah Quinones (10) - I would switch lives with Yadi 2. Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3: The Black Order From video game company Team Ninja, this is the Molina because of his work ethic and leadership. third installment in the Marvel Ultimate Alliance series. The Steven Lopez (12) - Bill Gates. game is expected to release in late 2019. Similar to the Andrew Cameron (12) - Steve from Blue’s Clues. events of Marvel’s Avengers: Infinity War, Marvel Roger Gerduna (11) - Elon Musk because he’s smart and Ultimate Alliance 3 will adapt a storyline in which heroes he owns Tessla bro. and villains will have to unite in a race across the Marvel universe to obtain the Infinity Stones. Jose Gutierrez (9) - Steve Buscemi because he was in 3. Mortal Kombat 11 that Spy Kids movie. By video game developers NetherRealm Studios, Christian Alvarado (12) - Kenny Omega, because he lives this is the 11th game within the Mortal Kombat series. rich and wrestles on his free time. This game has a set release date of April 23. Crystal Herrera (12) - My dog. I just wanna be home all 4. Ori and the Will of the Wisps From developer Moon Studios, this is the highly day and sleep. anticipated sequel to 2015’s Ori and the Blind Forest. Eric Ortiz (11) - Neil Degrasse Tyson, because he is an This game has a release date later in 2019. inspiration to all. I aspire to be as enlightened as him. 5. Yoshi’s Crafted World Tia Martin (10) - Michelle Obama, because I want to feel By video game developer Good- Feel, this is the like a powerful woman. 8th installment in the Yoshi franchise. This game is scheduled to be released March 29. The story will begin Jeffrey Pareja (12) - Amiri, because that dude’s so suc- with the Yoshis living peacefully on Yoshi’s island. At the cessful. top most peak of the island lies a gem set artifact called Sunni Guzman (12) I would switch lives with my mom. the Sundream stone, which possess the power to make Jason Pineda (12) - Who is married to Scarlett anyone’s wildest dreams come true. And the rest, see for Johansson? yourself real soon. 9 CHATROOM Mini-Opinion #4 Just Don’t Take His Lucky Charms Mini-Opinion #4 By Vivian Vidad What is your spirit animal? In Irish folklore, leprechauns are known as mis- Stephany Osei Opoku (10) - A Lion, because they aren’t chievous elves, and people believe afraid of battle. that the treasure they hoard Itzel Moreno (10) - A Walrus, because they have flubber. will be revealed if they Jaquelin Rivera (12) - A Deer, because they are mysterious. were found or that Zoey Anthony (10) - A Bird, because it goes wherever it they’ll find a leprechaun and his wants. treasure at the end of S. DeLoera (12) - The Dart Frog: cute, tiny, and lethal. a rainbow. Christian Alvarado (12) - A Wolf, because they stay in Leprechauns are packs and I love to stay with those close to me. believed to have been Jesse Rodriguez (12) - A Sloth, because I’m lazy. members of a group called Amelia Vidad (11) - A Snake, because I am one. Tuatha De Danann, who in- vaded Ireland and then were Natalie Villalabor (12) - A Dog, because they are living the banished to live underground. best life care free. It was from this group the idea David Martinez (12) - I got a heart like a Lion. of leprechauns originated. Before Christianity was intro- Dustin Janicki (10) - A Goat, because when I’m done with duced to the Irish, they had believed that their kings and life, I fall over. queens descended from gods called Tuatha De Danann. The origin of the word leprechauns is thought to SPARTUS SURVEYS have begun with old Irish “Lu Chorpain” which meant 1. Your favorite kind of potato? “small body.” Then in the eighth century came another word that links it to its modern name, “luchorpan” mean- #1. Mashed. #2. Fries #3. Hot (potato) ing sprite or pygmy. Finally came the modern word of 2. Are you superstitious? leprechaun which is believed to link the words “leath Yes: 51% bhrogan” which translates to “shoe maker.” Which leads 3. Cardi B. or Nicki M.? to the thought that leprechauns have a profession of being Cardi B.: 58% cobblers. Throughout history, leprechauns were described as bearded men who dressed in red and wore buckled Big Bucks Under the Sea shoes, often with a leather apron or a pointed hat and By Jayden Gutierrez smoking pipe. However, before the 20th century, it was Since its release in December of 2018, Aquaman imagined that instead of leprechauns wearing the iconic has been making waves at the box office now having red, they wore green. The green was brought to the raked in $291 million and over $1 Billion worldwide. modern day’s attention because there was a belief that With Aquaman now being the DC Extended leprechauns pinch those who aren’t wearing the color in Universes’ highest grossing film, it puts Wonder Woman at disapproval of their non-green apparel. the number two spot. The film was directed by James According to an Irish legend, those who are able Wan and stars big names such as Amber Heard, Nicole to find and capture a leprechaun are able to have three Kidman, Willem Dafoe, and more. The lead is played by wishes granted, because the leprechauns would barter for Jason Momoa, who is widely recognized by fans of the their freedom. Nevertheless, leprechauns are believed to popular HBO series Game of Thrones as Khal Drogo. be tricksters and can turn those wishes on you. Another The film has received many positive reviews since legend that relate to leprechauns is that they have their it’s release. “Excellent movie. I never thought you could own distinctive sound which is a tapping of their tiny make Aquaman cool in my life,” said reviewer James M. cobbler hammer or even driving nails into shoes. Aquaman received a critics score of 64% and an audience There is also a belief that these shoemakers are score of 79% on Rotten Tomatoes which puts it at num- also old male loners, and that there are no female lepre- ber two in terms of reviews for the DCED. While many chauns. There are also many stories where instead of critics had mixed opinions on the film, a majority of leprechauns being mischievous, they are harmless audiences enjoyed the movie with reviews calling it creatures that keep to themselves. “Spectacular” and “An epic visual journey.” And lastly, another fun fact is that in Europe, If you haven’t seen Aquaman yet it is not too late there is a law where leprechauns are a protected species. to catch it in a theater. RANDOMNESS 10 Some Pros and Cons of Video Gaming By Aaron Vega A Special Trip The one variety of play that has creased aggression over time. “The By Anais Renteria not declined over these decades but longer that individuals are exposed to On top of the mountains of instead has increased, is video violent video games, the more likely Oaxaca, Mexico lays a small town gaming. Many people are quick to they are to have aggressive behaviors, called San Jose del Pacifico where point out the disadvantages of thoughts, and feelings,” said lead they are known for using the magical gaming, but it also has its benefits. author Jay Hull, Dartmouth Professor. psilocybin mushrooms. . Over the past few years there . Violent games have always Shamans in this town are have been major issues with young been a major issue with children, but known for guiding people during children playing violent video games video gaming also has its benefits. their trips. The native people from that affect their behavior. There have More and more games are including this town typically take their first trip now been many studies that show the option to play in multiplayer around 6 years old. They take their violent video games can influence mode which connects games to the first trip around that age for the sole human behavior. Researchers at online world. The internet has had a purpose of preserving their inno- Dartmouth University examined the huge impact on gaming; now people cence. By giving young kids the results of 24 studies between 2010 around the world are able to socially mushrooms the children get to see and 2018, including over 17,000 interact and build friendships online. that this is more than just a fairytale. participants from nine to 19 years old. Gameplay is a way for individuals to This psychedelic drug is seen as Each study looked at how violent handle solvable problems that require something more in this town. video games affected the childrens’ them to make measured, tested, and The mushrooms go back all real world behavior, including their learning-based decisions either alone the way to the Aztecs who would take aggression. The participants were or with a team effort. these mushrooms as rituals. There are followed from three months to four It all comes down to respon- three ways they preserve the mush- years. There was significant evidence sible gaming, and understanding rooms: it can either be infused with from the analysis that violent video that, as with just about anything, honey, made into tea, or dehydrated. game play is associated with in- there are pros and there are cons. The drug also brings tourist interest to the town, where people Look Up Folks - It’s a Dangerous World seek to be guided and to hike on top By Dannica Moore of their mountains. This town, how- After three months of being ment with a smirk and saying, “I saw ever, has a big dislike of tourists who held captive by the man who mur- her getting on the school bus one day come and try to sell the mushrooms dered her parents, Jayme Closs was and knew she was the one I was going for other purposes. They want to keep finally able to escape. to take.” this part of themselves sacred and not On Jan. 10, in Barron County, Patterson is being held in a for it to just become another recre- WI., Jake Patterson left his home for max security facility while he waits ational drug. five or six hours leaving Jayme trial for murder and kidnapping. underneath his bed which was surrounded by bins of heavy weights. He did not know that would be the Lockport #1 Driving School last time he saw her. Putting on a pair of Patterson’s shoes she walked out of the house and was confronted by a dog walker. Jayme instantly cried for 30 hour class & help, begging her to save her from her kidnapper. In the 911 call Jayme said 12 hours BTW: $399. “He killed my parents, I wanna go home, help me.” Minutes later, BTW only: $299. Patterson arrived at home and realized that something was wrong. He immediately started searching Classes Available All Year Long the area in attempt to find Jayme, but it was too late. $20 OFF with this ad Patterson told officials he took Jayme because he knew “She was the one.” Following that state- For more information call: 815-531-2651 11 RANDOMNESS So Much to Watch, So Little Time - Still, Try These By Vivian Vidad While watching TV, people scare readers. There are four seasons Superstore that can be found on NBC distinguish which shows are better out and they certainly are unsettling and Hulu. This show follows a store in compared to others, however, there and . . . creepy. St. Louis, Missouri called “Cloud 9.” are some that are overlooked. An additional series is Schitt’s With four seasons out, viewers see Today, there are many stream- Creek, a comedy where a wealthy how employees tackle the everyday ing services where shows make their family suddenly finds themselves in grind of working in the superstore. debuts or “stream” a pilot. This poverty. In this series, the rich family Finally, you might try Counter- starting episode typically sets out the is forced to move to a small town that part. It is an espionage story where expectations for the show, and the they had bought before on a whim there are two versions of Earth that viewers decide whether or not to and have to adapt to their new intertwine in certain jurisdictions, continue watching. There are a surroundings. It can be found on Pop and intermix with each other fre- number of shows that have passed the TV and is even streamed on Netflix. quently. This drama is able to be viewers’ expectations but remain There is another comedy called found on the cable channel Starz. unnoticeable to a huge crowd. One of these such shows is The Unsolved Case of the Black Dahlia Marvel’s Runaways. It is an adventure By Aryanny Ramirez and superhero fiction with teen One of the country’s most lacerations of the face.” Most of the drama where a group of stereotypical infamous murder cases still remains damage done to her body was post- teenagers finds that their parents are unsolved to this day, 70 years later, a mortem. A photo of Short made the villains. In its first season, they case of a woman brutally murdered front page of The Herald-Express, and it display themes on what young people and tortured that caused an uproar in referred to her as “The Black Dahlia,” find relevant, such as topics about the famous city of Los Angeles. inspired by a murder movie released questioning authority to even racism. On Jan. 15, 1947, a woman about nine months earlier, titled “The It celebrates diversity, which in this named Betty Singer was taking a Blue Dahlia.” time is important. The two seasons of morning walk with her daughter. As The LA Examiner received an Runaways can be found on Hulu and she was approaching the corner of anonymous package that included several other streaming platforms like Norton and 39th, she noticed a white some of Short’s personal belongings, Youtube and Amazon Prime. object among the field of weeds. including an address book with the Another show is Channel Zero What she thought was a mannequin name Mark Hansen on the cover, a that streams on SYFY. It is a horror was actually a woman who was man who let Short stay with him for a fiction anthology series based off of severed in half. She quickly took her while in the past. After that, Hansen “creepy pasta,” stories found on the daughter from the gruesome sight became the prime suspect of the internet passed around to disturb and and to a nearby house to call police. case. Eventually, more letters came Marvel/Netflix Part Upon arriving they quickly pouring into numerous newspaper By Jayden Gutierrez investigated. The victim was lying on offices, showing messages made from Marvel and Netflix can- the ground facing upwards and had magazine and newspaper clippings, her arms posed above her head and celled the rest of their shows from similar to the first letter they re- her legs were twisted. Her body was ceived. Every single thing sent to the their partnership on the streaming severed just above the waist and her LAPD was wiped and rinsed with service on Feb. 18, 2019 bringing an mouth was sliced. Police believed gasoline, making it impossible for end to the release of Marvel/ Netflix that she was tied down and tortured forensics to get any clues off them. shows. for several days due to the rope marks By June 1947, the LAPD had Ever since Marvel’s first season on her neck, ankles, and wrists and processed and eliminated 75 sus- of Daredevil aired in 2015 on Netflix, the body was wiped down and pects. About 60 people confessed to fans have been able to enjoy charac- cleaned before being dumped on the having murdered Short, but only 22 ters from the comics like Iron Fist, vacant lot for there was no sign of any of them were considered viable Luke Cage, Jessica Jones, and The blood on the grass or the body. suspects. Even so, noone was ever Punisher in adapted live-action By using the victim’s finger- charged with her murder. shows. prints, they were able to identify the To this day, this case remains In a statement to Deadline victim as 22 year-old, Elizabeth a cold case and may never be solved. Netflix said, “We are grateful to Short. She worked as a clerk and had What happened exactly to Short is Marvel for five years of our fruitful last resided in Santa Barbara. The still unknown and may never be partnership and thank the passionate autopsy found that her initial cause of known for, as of now, the murder of fans who have followed these series death was “hemorrhage and shock” “The Black Dahlia” still remains an from the beginning.” due to “concussion of the brain and unsolved mystery. RANDOM SPORTS BRIEFS 12 Boys’ Roundball Season Ends By Zach Gibson The basketball team, led by its three captains, Destin Whitaker, Ikenna Okeke, and Mike Salter had a good season. They started out very strong winning the WJOL Thanksgiving Tournament and then went on an eight game winning streak. The team played in some big games this season against good teams like Morgan Park, Thornton, and Bolingbrook. The season had its ups and downs but overall it was a very exciting season. Many of the team’s players Winter Sports MVP’s (l to r) had memorable moments and games. Destin Whitaker Bowling/Girls: Clorissa O’Brien Basketball: Karina Ortiz lead the team in scoring all season. When the team went Bowling/Boys: David Chmura Wrestling: Kaleb Zeffield to play Minooka in the final stretch of the season Whitaker had a season high performance of 37 points. He Competitive Dance: Faith Miller Congrats to all! was three points away from breaking the schools single game scoring record of 39 points. A Belated Congratulations Ladies Whitaker was named to the By Elexis Vasquez all conference team and Okeke and The Varsity Cheer Team routine just a few days before Salter had honorable mention. made it to State! It has only been a sectionals, they ended up placing The team has now built a few years since they made it in a coed fifth. By placing fifth in sections, they standard of success that is to be division but this was the first time in got their bid for IHSA State. “It took expected. With many juniors on the 20 years they went in an all-girls lots of hard work, practice, a positive team, they will look to take the division. mindset and endless motivations, but season farther than this year’s team. The team left for State on it was all worth it in the end,” said Thursday, January 31, and competed Shaena Bordas, a four-year varsity Ladies Kickball the next day. During that time, they cheerleader. By Samantha Moreno competed against teams of more than Overall, we could not be more The girls varsity soccer team, twice their size, having only seven proud of our cheer team. From lead by Coach Wicyk, had a success- girls competing on the mats for our watching them perform at our friday ful season in 2018, but are excited to team. Not only did they place 21st in night football games, to basketball start the 2019 season with some the state, but this was the first time games, to supporting them when they returning players as well as new ones. they made it in a large division. went to State, RHS is so appreciative The girls soccer program has During their performances, they did of all the hard work and endless hours been doing many great things and not face any deductions. put in to make the team great. they’ve shown their commitment as a Throughout the 2018-2019 Of course, we cannot forget to program and team on the field and season, they faced many challenges thank our coaches, Ms. Kayley off. After a very successful two day and injuries with many of the girls, Johnson, Ms. Krissy Kinder and Ms. tryout, the RHS girls varsity soccer but they were able to overcome them Renee Dignan, for continuing to team is now training early in the and give us a great season. Not only make the team all it can be. It would mornings as well as in the afternoons did they have to rework their whole not be the same without them! to get back into shape. Overall the program has many goals and has been working hard on them. “We have a lot of new players added to the team and a team goal is to become familiar with each other and be conditioned as well,” said captain Kalie Rice (12). The team is feeling hopeful for the future of the RHS soccer program and is eager to begin play- ing. “We are working hard to achieve goals of being able to compete in every game, and we are all eager to play together and see it all come together,” said Rice. Good luck girls on a great season.