February 2004

Vo l u m e 7, N u m b e r 3
www.thecharger.org
F EBRUARY 2004
Peacock joins
local weather
forecasters
Color and taste take
the Golden Test Tube
BY JESSICA L.
OP-ED EDITOR
This year’s Golden Test Tube winners
for sixth, seventh and eighth grade were
eighth graders Emily W. and Carina M., with
their project titled “Does Color Affect
Taste?”
The district wide Science Fair, which
took place on Saturday, February 7, was a
big success. District 10 students from
kindergarten to eighth grade participated
in the Science Fair, displaying a total of
seventy-four projects.
Peacock students submitted fortyfour of these projects. Every project was
inspected by a pair of judges, who, at the
end of the fair, decided on a winner for
the Golden Test Tube award.
Projects entered in the Science Fair
were judged on how clearly the problem
of the experiment was stated, the
scientific approach, validity of the
conclusion, visual presentation and, of
course, the knowledge the student gained
by performing his or her experiment.
See Science Fair
Page 2
The newly installed weather station on the
roof of Peacock will allow students to
monitor live weather conditions for NBC 5.
(Staff photo)
Photo by Jessica L.
AMY E.
EDITOR
Eighth graders Carina M. and Emily W. won the GoldenTestTube with their
project, “Does Color AffectTaste.”
NEWS
Ever seen the weather on NBC 5 news? Notice
how they show the weather report from many
different schools? Now Peacock will be a part of
that, thanks to seventh grade science teacher, Mr.
Larsen.
He recently installed a weather station on the
roof, which will be used for many things
throughout the year. Mr. Larsen was recently
interviewed to learn more on the new weather
station.
See Weather Station
Page 3
2
T HE C HARGER N EWS F EBRUARY 2004
Peacock to perform Annie for spring musical
B Y E M I LY B .
Students at Peacock will soon be
performing the musical Annie. Carol Lynch
of Schaumburg on Stage will direct the
production.
When interviewed recently, Mrs. Lynch
said that she is directing the play at Peacock
because she loves working with kids and loves
directing school plays.
Mrs. Lynch picked Annie
because there are lots of
parts for boys and girls.
The performances will
be on April 29, April 30, and
May 1, 2004.
Mrs. Lynch has directed
other musicals, including
Mrs. Lynch
picked Annie
because there
are lots of parts
for boys and
girls.
Guys and Dolls, Joseph and The
Technicolor Dream Coat, and Bye Bye
Birdie. She has also directed Annie
before also.
She usually has about 100 people
in her casts, but she only needs about
50 or 60 people in the cast for Annie.
See Annie
Page 4
Science Fair a district-wide success
Continued from page 1
Eighth grader, Randy P., describes his science fair project to a judge on Saturday,
February 7, 2004. (Photo by Jessica Lipski)
There were twenty possible points for each
judging area and the highest possible number
of total points to be earned was one hundred.
There were so many students entered in
the science fair this year that instead of the
judging taking two hours, as expected, it took
nearly three.
After judging had been completed,
students waited anxiously to find out who had
won. The age groups were kindergarten and
first graders, second and third graders, forth
and fifth graders, sixth, seventh and eighth
graders.
Peacock winners Emily and Carina
explained their project: “We tested fifty people
and we had twelve different drinks,” said
Emily.
Carina added, “The first four were just
plain sugar water, the second four were flavors
with colors you wouldn’t normally associate
the flavor with and the last four were flavors
with colors that you would associate the flavor
with.”
They found that a lot of the people they
tested got the flavors wrong because the color
of the drink confused them.
Emily and Carina think that their project
won because they really understood their topic.
They think that
testing fifty people
could have helped
They found
them too.
that a lot of the
Each of the girls
have participated in people they
about four District 10 tested got the
Science Fairs and said flavors wrong
that this was some of because the
the best competition color of the
they have seen.
drink confused
They said that they them.
join the science fair
because it is a lot of
fun, and, of course, the extra credit they earn
for it is very helpful.
“There were a lot of really creative
experiments this year,” commented Emily,
“There were some really good physical ones
and some good memory ones. It was a really
good fair this year”
“There were a lot of really good projects
that the younger kids did too,” added Carina.
Dr. Nickisch said that he was very pleased
with the experiments entered in the fair this
year. “Every year the projects get more and
more sophisticated where there is more and
more technology used to showcase the
projects.”
T HE C HARGER N EWS F EBRUARY 2004
3
Peacock morning announcements now live
on television
BY JULIA W.
In a change from last year, the Peacock
announcements are now being broadcasted
live in the morning on every classroom’s TV.
Every four weeks, a different advisory will
prepare and broadcast the announcements in
the broadcasting studio (located in the library)
with Mrs. Bernahl helping them.
P.E. teacher, Mrs. Engel stated, “It’s a great
opportunity for students to get to be
anchormen and sound crew.”
The announcements include main
announcements, birthdays, events, and
weather.
Sixth grader, Tony DeStefano commented,
“The announcements need to include more
about what is going on in the day.”
Sixth grade math teacher Mr. Behrendt
added, “Sports results should definitely be
included every morning.”
See Announcements
Page 4
Seventh grade students, Megan Z. and Veronica M. work at the control panel in
the broadcast studio. (Photo courtesy of Mr. Peel)
New weather station will connect to world network
Continued from page 1
According to Mr. Larsen, “The purpose the weather patterns.
at the moment, but will be working in the next
of this weather station is to incorporate
Once the weather net station is connected, week or so.
meteorolog y into the
the school can communicate with any
“The cable I was sent was damaged. And
seventh grade curriculum.” “The purpose of
other school involved in the program now I just have to wait for the right conditions
“It will show us live
anywhere in the world. (There are to install it,” Mr. Larsen said.
this weather
feed of the weather right
over 7,000 of them)
Hopefully the weather station will be up
station is to
outside of our building.”
“If there was a hurricane was and running by next week.
The station will provide incorporate
heading towards a school
“I think this
the weather outside at that meteorology into
in Florida, we could
experience will show the
precise moment for the the seventh grade
contact them and talk Once the weather net kids a more real meaning
news show. Right now they curriculum.”
with them on the weather station is connected,
of the weather,” said Mr.
use weather that is
situations there,” stated the school can
Larsen.
predicted the day before.
Mr. Larsen.
Next time you’re
communicate with
“I also think it will seem more real knowing
The weather net station will
watching
the weather on
any other school
that the information we get is coming from also be involved with the NBC 5
NBC, look to see if
involved in the
right above us,” Mr. Larsen added.
Weather Net station program.
Peacock is providing the
When asked why he installed it himself, What this program does is take the program anywhere in information.
he answered, “I had a lot of help from the weather conditions from any the world.
Mr. Larsen wanted to
custodians at our school. Without their help, random school in the Chicago area
especially thank the
the station wouldn’t be there.”
and shows the information on the news along custodians at Peacock for helping him install
The seventh grades science classes will take with the normal weather.
the weather station.
the data daily and graph it to keep track of
The weather station is not up and running
4
T HE C HARGER N EWS F EBRUARY 2004
Photo courtesy of Mrs. Mann
Sixth graders enjoy baby
parenting project
Past sixth graders, Michael S., Rachel K. and Callie S. show off the the BabyThink It
Over Dolls used in family and consumer science classes.
BY COLLEEN B. AND JENNIFER
L.
Sixth grade students are very excited about
their family and consumer science projects.
Most sixth grade students have already
participated in the Baby Think It Over
Program. In this program, sixth graders have
to take care of a baby for 48 hours.
Many students became fond of their
babies. There are eight babies: Sara, Ashley,
April, Kara, Cody, Carlos, Kyle and Quinton.
FACS teacher, Mrs. Mann stated, “I’m
surprised how attached the students become
to the babies.”
We interviewed six students and most
agreed that the worst part was waking up in
the middle of night to care for their baby.
Many students thought it would be easy
to take care of a baby, but they realized that it
wasn’t as easy as they imagined.
Sabrina S. thought it was annoying when
her baby cried, but she thought it was a good
experience.
Tony D. said it was tough to walk up the
stairs with they baby and the carrier.
“It makes me look older,” said Justin K..
He also commented, “It shows you’re
responsible.”
There were many things that happened to
the students. For example, Emily B. got sick
one night while she had the baby.
When the baby cried Justin K. thought it
was his sister.
Continued from page 2
Everyone will be given a CD with songs
to practice at home.
Mrs. Lynch hopes that students will not
only want to act but also to help with the
stage crew. There are plenty of spots on
the stage crew. The stage crewmembers will
control the lights; paint the sets, and much
more.
Mrs. Lynch also wanted to add that if
you don’t know how to sing and dance you
could still get a part because that’s what
she is going to teach us.
She is looking forward to having a lot
of students trying out and working with
them.
Sixth grader Tess F. said, “The play
would be cool because it is a story from
long ago.”
She is trying out for an orphan and is
excited to perform, but she is also nervous.
She thinks the play will be fun!
Tess’s classmate Andrea P. said, “We
should do a different play since we already
did this one.”
Andrea is also trying out for an orphan.
Both Sabrina S. and Morgan S. thought it
was fun, but it wasn’t like a real baby.
Morgan stated that it was easier because
See Baby Think it Over
Page 6
Mr. Scaletta makes school fun
for new student
B Y J U L I E P.
You might have noticed a new face
among our school lately. Her name is
Krystal N. and she is in eighth grade.
Krystal’s hobbies include reading and
playing soccer.
She said, “I like my new school, but I
miss my old one.”
Her favorite subject is math because
“Mr. Scaletta makes it fun.”
Krystal is making new friends and
becoming more of a part of our school
every day.
T HE C HARGER N EWS F EBRUARY 2004
5
Students recreate the immigrants’ experience
What was it like to be on Ellis Island in the 1920s?
get into the country was to collect a certain
amount of points.
In the last two weeks of January, eighth
The points were given to them after they
graders, with the help of social studies teacher
completed three separate exams. Each exam
Ms. Heppeler, managed to reenact what it was
required something different from the
like to be at Ellis Island in 1920s.
students for them to
With the participation of several
pass on.
sixth and seventh grade students, When taking the
When taking the
the eighth graders managed to get exam to measure
exam to measure
their education, the
the full experience.
their education, the
The whole purpose of doing immigrants had to
immigrants had to
this, said Ms. Heppeler, was “to rely on their basic
rely on their basic
have the eighth graders really knowledge of math,
knowledge of math,
understand what it must have been shapes, and in some
shapes, and in some
like to work on the island, and then
cases, presidents.
cases, presidents.
have the sixth graders know what
Physical exams
it was like to go through it.”
included push ups, sit
The students were allowed to pick their
ups, and any other thing that the examiners
parts in this presentation. The roles ranged
could think of. In this area, if the doctor gave
from guards to commissioner, but all the parts
you a certain letter, then some points were
helped to make the reenactment a success.
deducted.
The only way for the immigrants, in this
The legal exams were the only that the
immigrants (students) had to be lucky. The
case the sixth or seventh grade students, to
BY JOANNA M.
examiner in this area was responsible for
checking the criminal records, which were
given to each person by the taggers, the
people who made up the identities.
If he’d spent too much time in jail or there
were other complications, the student was
either thrown in detention or was deported.
The last step in the whole process was
going to the tally booth. There the students
had their points added up by the
commissioner and it was where their ‘fate’,
so to say, was decided.
All the while, the guards and Ms.Heppeler
made sure that the rules were being followed
and that the lines were moving.
Although this had been done in previous
years, Ms.Heppeler commented that this was
“the first year that we branched out and
invited the sixth grade class.”
Even though she does “envision it getting
bigger and better” in the future, Ellis Island
is for now “a constant work in progress.”
6
Babies
Continued from page 4
you didn’t have to feed it. Morgan thought it
would be much
harder to take care
Morgan
of a real child.
Sabrina said it thought it
was really cool to be would be
able to act like a much harder
parent.
to take care of
Many students
a real child.
enjoyed taking care
of a child.
Mark K. said “It was fun and I think
everyone should do it instead of writing the
essay,” and he added “You only get it for two
days”.
All the students learned to be responsible
about caring for a baby.
Mrs. Mann said that the purpose of this
project was “To show the students how much
of a responsibility it is to take care of a child.”
T HE C HARGER N EWS F EBRUARY 2004
Editorial and Opinion
Fast food or fat food?
Is the weight gain your fault?
B Y W AY N E R .
Have you ever eaten fast food? Did you
think a weight gain could be from eating too
much of it? Did you know the possible risks?
Did you know one McDonald’s sweet’n’sour
sauce has 50 calories? There are 170 calories
in the new chicken nuggets.
Did you know a whopper with everything,
large fries and medium chocolate shake is
2000 calories? Burger King has fries at 500
calories, which is the lowest caloric choice.
Pizza Hut is no better choice. Everything
there has high carbs. Calories are very high
too. So, if you want to lose weight, stay away
from those places.
causing weight gain in many people today.
All the places mentioned here have web
sites. They have nutrition information you can
look up. You pick what you want and it tells
you about the nutrition information. Most
have printouts of all the food served. It’s your
choice.
TV or intercom
You decide
Continued from page 3
Is the TV really better then the intercom?
On the one side, eighth grader Carina
Mariottini stated, “I like the intercom better
because you sometimes can’t understand the
anchors, and my advisory’s TV doesn’t always
work.”
On the other hand, Mr. Behrendt liked the
TV: “It’s a lot of fun to see the
announcements read.”
“They are a lot clearer than the intercom,”
added seventh grader, Natalie W.
Mrs. Engel though, didn’t take a side.
“It doesn’t really matter where we hear the
announcements, except it’s kind of hard to
bring the TV into the gym in and out every
morning.”
Will the announcements be improved
upon in coming years? That will be something
interesting to watch. Maybe more
improvements will added, or the set up will
change. The only way to find out is to watch
next year.
Wendy’s is not bad, but not good either.
They have high calories for what kids like.
Saladwise and healthy food, it is better for
adults. One frosty has 540 calories.
Taco Bell’s tacos have a lot of calories as
well. Two regular tacos are 156 calories. To
have mild sauce on it, that’s another 24 calories
alone.
Many people blame fast food companies
for weight gain. One of my brother’s friends
goes out for fast food about ten or more times
a week, and he was told to lose some weight.
He bought the food, he ate the food, he
went back for the food over and over again.
It’s his fault, not the fast food places. They
did not make him buy and eat the food. All
they did was have too many calories and just
that’s how it is. What the companies did was
put too much oil in the foods. That is one thing
News Editor
Amy E.
Op-Ed Editor
Jessica L.
Features Editor Joanna M.
Creative Writing Editor
Joanna M.
Entertainment Editor
Megan L.
Games Editor
Rena W.
Sports Editor
Emily W.
Art Editors
Alexandra B.
Acaisha B.
Graphics Editor Heather N.
Finishing Editor Eric A.
Assistant
Tricia H.
Advertisement Editor
Nicole M.
Assistant
Wayne R.
Circulation Editor Carmen Z.
Faculty Advisor Mr. Travis
The Charger is published five times
a year: October, November, February,
March and May by Peacock Middle
School, located at 301 E. North Street,
Itasca, IL 60143.
Phone: (630)773-0335
Email: [email protected]
Web: http://thecharger.org
Write the editorial board with
questions, comments and complaints.
Correspondence must be signed.
T HE C HARGER O P -E D F EBRUARY 2004
7
Peacock’s picks for best picture 2003
B Y E M I LY W .
SPORTS EDITOR
The 76th Annual Oscar Awards will take place on Sunday, February 29, 2004. Peacock’s
students and staff had their say on which movie, out of all the movies released in 2003, should
win best picture.
Cheaper By The
Dozen, it was
funny and
everybody
liked it.
- Colleen B., sixth grade.
The Last
Samurai
should win an
Oscar because
it was a really
great movie
and had
something for
everyone.
Finding Nemo,
because it was
funny even
though it’s for
littler kids.
- Raya P., eighth grade.
The Last
Samurai, it had
good action
scenes and
you learned
multiple
lessons from
it.
- Laura D., eighth grade.
- Ernie K., eighth grade.
Scary Movie 3
should win
because it was
really, really
funny.
- Amy E., eighth grade.
Pirates of the
Caribbean
should win an
Oscar because
it was a really
good movie.
- George M., seventh grade.
Finding Nemo
should win
because it was
funny and
there were no
bad parts.
- Callie S., seventh grade.
Finding Nemo
is so funny.
- Katie N., seventh grade.
Under the
Tucson Sun was
a very cool
movie. It told
the story of a
woman’s
complicated
life and how it
got better.
The setting
was in Italy and that was cool too.
- Urszula M., seventh grade.
Lord of the
Rings: Return
of the King
should win an
Oscar, it was
entertaining
and everyone
wants to see
it. It was
good.
- Peter S., sixth grade.
Identity was so
scary; it had
everything I
love in it. The
acting was
really good.
John Cusack
was awesome.
He does not
get credit for
what he does. It was just an unbelievable
movie.
- Mrs. Krefetz, eighth grade science
8
T HE C HARGER O P -E D F EBRUARY 2004
By Acaisha B., Art Editor
T HE C HARGER F EATURES F EBRUARY 2004
9
Sixth grade swimming sensation sports
high hopes
Kara F. is a sixth grader at Peacock. She
participates in many after-school activities, but
her favorite is swimming. One of her dreams
one day is to become a professional swimmer.
Kara spends thirteen hours a week on
swimming. Five hours are spent on swim
meets and two hours a day are spent on
practices.
Kara started swimming when she was
three, but joined the Itasca Dolphins Swim
Team when she was eight. She is now twelve
and swims for the Itasca Dolphins and the
Elk Grove Stingrays.
“It’s a different sport and good for your
body. It is lots of fun and you meet many new
people who become your friends,” Kara
explained.
“I’ve won medals, ribbons, and trophies.
My favorite swim was when I had to swim a
mile in a lake. I got many different prizes for
this,” Kara said.
Kara does many
different activities in
“When people practices.
cheer me on I
“We exercise,
feel nervous
practice kicking,
and special at pulling (swimming
the same
with out kicking),
flip-turns, starts, and
time.”
normal swimming,”
Kara explained.
Her favorite stroke is freestyle.
Kara tells how nerve-racking the swim
meets can be. She says the best thing to do
when you are at a meet is to concentrate on
getting your best time. She also said to
concentrate on beating other swimmers and
the goals you are hoping to achieve.
“It’s nerve-racking waiting to swim,” Kara
said.
“When people cheer me on I feel nervous
and special at the same time.”
She says that sometimes it makes her swim
faster.
“I really enjoy swimming. It makes me feel
good.”
Photo courtesy of Kara Field
BY ELIZABETH R.
Sixth grader, Kara F. was one of four Itasca students to participate in the
Junior Olympics swimming meet this past summer.
10
T HE C HARGER F EATURES F EBRUARY 2004
The Book Nook
Off the Shelf
Novel News from the Itasca
Community Library
By Lori Craft
Page
The library is pleased to have
a spot in the Charger in which
to recommend great books and
to let you in on any upcoming
library activities for teens.
Page, published by Random House in 2000,
is the second book in Tamora Pierce’s Protector
of the Small series.
It continues the story of a young noble
girl named Keladry of Mindelan, also known
as Kel.
Kel is the second girl in the realm ever to
try for a knight’s shield. After surviving a rather
difficult year on probation, Kel has returned
to the palace to resume her training and
studies.
Despite the fact that training master
Wyldon of Cavall, a stiff man who disapprove
of female warriors, let her stay, Kel must prove
yet again that she can keep up with the boys.
Kel must deal with bullies who try their
hardest to get rid of her as well as with her
own terrible fear of heights. She soon finds
herself in a situation where only she can make
a difference in saving her friends.
http://www.amazon.com
BY MELISSA S.
On a scale from 1-5, I’d give this book a 5
for the its realism and fantastic sense of
adventure that will have you glued to it all day.
Full Tilt is a twisted ride
BY TRICIA H.
http://www.amazon.com
Do you like amusement parks? Do you like
gripping novels that keep you asking, “What’s
next?” If you answered yes to one or both of
these questions, then you should read Full Tilt by
Neal Shusterman.
Full Tilt is about a teen named Blake. Blake
doesn’t like riding rides at theme parks, but his
brother Quinn is just the opposite. Quinn is a
crazy, risk-taking boy who always gets into trouble.
One day Blake mysteriously gets an invitation
to an amusement park, but his brother steals the
invitation and goes to the theme park. Blake goes
out to find where his brother went, and finds out
that his brother is in a twisted theme park. The
only way to get out of the park is to ride seven
rides by 7 o’clock, but it’s a lot harder than it
sounds.
These seven rides are made up of your biggest
fears and weaknesses. If you don’t make it through
a ride, then you become a worker at the park.
Blake has to save his brother, but will he survive
all seven rides and do it in time?
Read this awesome book to find out!
On a 1-5 scale, I would rate this book a 5. It’s
a scary and addicting book that has an excellent
ending. I would definitely recommend Full Tilt
by Neal Shusterman to anyone who is looking
for an exciting book to read.
The Youth Staff would like to
congratulate Elizabeth Riggio,
the winner of the $50.00 raffle
prize in the Library’s “Young
Adults Get Carded @ the
Library” campaign.
Looking for a good read?
Try:
Confessions of a Teenage
Drama Queen
by Dyan Sheldon.
Read the book that inspired
the movie of the same name
currently in theaters. After
moving from New York to a
small suburban New Jersey
town, Lola sets her sights on
the lead in her high school’s
annual drama production, and
finds herself in conflict with
the most popular girl in
school.
Eragon
by Christopher Paolini.
This book written by a teenage
boy (he started writing it when
he was 15) has been on the
best seller list for weeks and
will be turned into a movie in
2005.
After a fifteen-year-old boy
called Eragon finds a
mysterious stone that turns out
to be a dragon egg, his life
changes forever as he
becomes a dragon rider.
T HE C HARGER F EATURES F EBRUARY 2004
11
12
T HE C HARGER F EATURES F EBRUARY 2004
T HE C HARGER F EATURES F EBRUARY 2004
13
Composing career inspires band director
An interview with
Mr. Loest
Mr. Loest is Peacock’s band director, and
he has also composed many pieces of band
music.
He started out by writing pop music for
his personal enjoyment, and tried to get his
music performed by various pop artists.
During a recent interview, Mr. Loest said,
“To break into that scene is very difficult.”
Then one day, it occurred to him that he liked
to compose, and that he liked band music. So
he decided to start
composing band
“Slideways”
pieces.
Mr. Loest has
features the
recently written
trombone
section and our some pieces such as Peacock Band Director,Timothy L., is a very successful composer for middle
“Chorale”
and school bands.
sixth grade
“Mystic Chant.”
teachers
He has also lessons, he would sit at the piano and make
playing slide
written “Slideways,” up melodies, which he later wrote down.
whistles.
which will be
Mr. Loest’s first piece was published in
premiered
at 1995. His inspirations for composing are his
Peacock on Sunday, February 22 by
family,
life
the Varsity band.
experiences, the
“Slideways” features the To compose his music,
works of great
trombone section and our sixth Mr. Loest uses the piano, composers, and
grade teachers playing slide whistles. a computer, and an
his faith in God.
When comparing his newer imaginary band in his
He also gets
pieces to the older ones, Mr. Loest
inspiration from
head.
said, “My newer pieces take a
the students at
melodic idea as I developed it. My
Peacock, and the
Responsibility
Caring
older pieces were straight melody with Itasca Band Program.
Dan
W.
Jose S.
harmonic accompaniment.”
To compose his music, Mr. Loest uses the
Logan
M.
Misaki F.
It usually takes Mr. Loest anywhere from piano, a computer, and an imaginary band in
David
M.
Callie S.
three weeks to three months to compose a his head. When asked what he likes best about
Adam
D.
Amanda P.
piece.
composing, Mr. Loest said, “I would have to
Eric
A.
Wayne R.
He first became interested in composing say it’s very individualistic.
Megan
Z.
Tessie F.
when he was in middle school.
Mr. Loest thinks that the worst part about
Sara
Z.
Julia W.
Instead of practicing his assigned piano composing is that it can be very tedious,
Nicole
K.
Dani D.
frustrating, and time consuming.
Sabrina
S.
He is currently working on two
Danielle F.
commissions. One commission is for
Minooka Junior High, and the other is for
Respect
Citizenship
the Illinois Music Educators Association
John P.
Jackie S.
(IMEA) Honor Band.
Mr. Loest thinks it’s important for middle
Trustworthiness
school students to find positive ways to be
Elizabeth R.
creative. He also thinks that art is a great
Kevin T.
vehicle for shaping human feelings.
February 2004
Don’t miss the next
band concert on
Sunday, February 22
at 3:00 PM in the
Peacock gymnasium
Photo by Marisa G.
BY MARISA G.
14
T HE C HARGER F EATURES F EBRUARY 2004
T HE C HARGER F EATURES F EBRUARY 2004
14
Ordinary problems for
ordinary students
By Joanna Mi., Features Editor
Everyone has had a time when he or she has had problems. Once in a while, those problems
can get out of hand.
Dr. West has worked as a student counselor for twenty-two years, thirteen of which she
spent teaching middle school students such as those at Peacock. “Rumors, teasing, and
harassing are what I get the most,” Dr. West said. “The most common cause is
miscommunication. Misunderstanding something and the things ‘so and so said’ and
‘you said’ get turned into third party, fourth party and stories get changed in the
process.”
Such problems can affect people other than the ones disagreeing. “Nine out of ten,
they get in a disagreement in class, the teacher has to stop to deal with it, then other
kids get involved, and others lose out on the learning time,” commented Dr. West.
But students arguing aren’t the only problems. Another problem is depression.
“Depression, which I have seen with students, affects a lot of people. It can affect the
person’s friends and it certainly affects their family. If a person is really, really depressed,
sometimes their mood is very negative and that impacts the people around them.”
But how can someone be sure that he or someone she knows is depressed? If people
are having an argument they tend to ignore each other and try not to talk to one another. So,
the main question here is what are the signs of depression?
“If someone is just sad or unhappy for one or two days that’s not what I would call
depression. Depression is someone who is really low or down for a long period of time. I think
it says it has to be several weeks. Two or three weeks at least.”
Like all problems, depression can become serious. More serious than most normal
problems. Some of the signs then might be more noticeable and unexpected.
“If it comes to the point of someone being suicidal, which doesn’t happen very often, you
want to watch because people will tend to give up on things. They start making a plan how
they are going to do it and they start giving away their items. They’ll give away their CDs,
that kind of stuff that they would normally not do.”
See Problems
Page 16
False Pick-Me-Ups
When someone is feeling stressed-out, usually they do something, eat
something, drink something, etc. These things only make you feel better
temporarily. They are called False Pick-Me-Ups.
These Pick-Me-Ups are a bad way to handle overstress!
False Pick-Me-Ups Teens Use Daily
-Sugar
-Caffeine; Coffee, Black Tea, Chocolate, Cola.
-Alcohol
-Inhalants; nail polish remover, paint thinner, oil-based paints, and glue.
-Drugs
-Tobacco; cigarettes
-Your own adrenalin: Workaholic, Shopping sprees, and thrill-seeking
hobbies.
How to cope w
ith
depression
By Emily W.,
Sports Editor
Here is some
information on
ways teens ge
d e p re ss e d ,
h o w th e y ca
t
n st o p st re ss
websites teen
, and
s can visit.
Signs of Dep
ression
1. You feel sa
d a lot.
2. You have N
o energy.
3. You have no
interest in your
usual activities
4. There is a
.
change in your
sl
ee
ping pattern.
5. There is a
change in your
eating pattern
6. You have fe
.
elings of hope
lessness.
7. You have fe
elings of worth
lessness.
8. You’ve been
experiencing
anxiety.
educe Stress
Ten Ways to R
inimum).
eep (8 hours m
sl
gh
ou
en
et
1. G
.
2. Get exercise
ver you
tra time whene
ex
lf
se
ur
yo
e
3. Giv
mework
rlier, start ho
ea
up
e
ak
can. (W
earlier, etc.)
life. (Throw
d declutter your
4. Organize an
ganize stuff
don’t need, or
away junk you
you do need)
easily and
you can talk to
ds
en
fri
r
fo
ok
5.Lo
s w ith
openly.
e w ith fr ie nd
tim
e
or
m
nd
6. S pe
es.
positive attitud
t.
lo
a
h
7. Laug
e for quiet.
save some tim
8. Everyday,
dog, or just
ic, walk your
(Listen to mus
relax.)
r people.
9. Forgive othe
it. (Family,
when you need
lp
he
r
fo
sk
A
.
10
others)
, counselors, or
rs
he
ac
te
,
ds
frien
What would
you do?
By Pam R.
A couple of teachers and students were
asked a few questions regarding
depression. When asked what he thought
when he heard that a friend or student
was depressed, seventh grade language
arts teacher, Mr. Poremba said that he
would worry, but he would also stress that
there is a difference between being sad
and depressed.
In the case of a student, Mr. Poremba
said he would talk to the student and see if
he needed to see Dr. West or would like to
see Dr. West.
He added, “If I feel that they just need to see
Dr. West, then I don’t ask, I just make an
arrangement.”
For reasons of confidentiality, Mr. Poremba
declined to say how many students at Peacock
he thought were depressed, but he suggested
that if Peacock were like the rest of the
population, there would have to be some.
Mr. Poremba added, “The middle school
years are difficult years for children, and for
those who are having a little trouble, things
get better.”
Sixth grade social studies teacher, Mrs.
Kabat said that she did think one or two
students were depressed.
She thought that because of their
symptoms. “They don’t want to do
anything for themselves and there’s just
a lot of apathy. I think not wanting to do
their work, just not having the ability to
put any effort into anything is a sign of
depression.”
You can also go online and get
help from some websites out
there which are made to help
teens.
Visit: http://thecharger.org/teens
See Teachers
Page 16
Illustration by
Acaisha Buffo,
Art Editor
15
16
T HE C HARGER E NTERTAINMENT F EBRUARY 2004
How to spot
depression
Continued from page 14
Other signs, particularly with students, you
see a change in grades. Sometimes you can see a
change in their involvement, and they tend to
be more of a loner and withdraw from friends.
They might withdraw from family and isolate
themselves by going to their room. Those are
all things parents and friends should be aware
of.”
Like most problems, depression can be
gotten rid of by going to someone for help. It
may seem hard at first, but it truly is worth it.
“I would say that they should go to someone
that they can trust,” explained Dr. West. “They
should certainly tell their parents, but kids this
age won’t go. They shouldn’t get angry if the
person says ‘We need to tell your parents and
get you some help.’ Your parents need to be
involved. Usually students come around and
realize that they need to get their parents
involved.”
Depression is one of those problems that
most consider bad for your mental health, which
is true. Depression can be gotten ridden of, but
it requires prompt treatment. Students who are
depressed should always remember that they
have friends all around them and that their
parents should be the first ones to know if
something is wrong.
As a final note from Dr. West, “I would just
caution kids to keeps their eyes and ears open
because you all know when things are going on
before the adults around you do. If you see
someone that you think is really down and not
snapping out of it. I would recommend the
friend to talk to an adult or come and see me.
We could talk about it, how to handle it and get
the person some support because sometimes
all you need is some extra support.”
Lord of the Rings:
The Return of the King
Long but worth it
BY SHANE D.
I recommend you see the
movie, The Lord of the Rings:
The Return of the King. It is
about Frodo Baggins’ quest to
destroy the ring.
It is a movie with action and
violence. There are tons of
great battle scenes that help
Frodo get the ring destroyed
more quickly.
This is the third and last
movie created for The Lord of
the Rings.
Although it is still a great
show, it is better if you see the
first two before you see the
third one.
The best part of this movie
is when Gandalf saves the city
from the evil orcs and trolls.
At the end of this movie
Frodo and Samwise reach the
mountains and are about to
toss the ring into the lava
when...
Well, I can’t tell you the
ending. You’ll have to go see for yourself!
All I can tell you is that you should be
prepared for a great, three and a half hour
long flick!
Overall Rating: ***1/2
http://movies.yahoo.com
Genre: Action Adventure
Suggested Audience: Patient people who like
action
Rating: PG-13
Teachers speak School of Rock freebie
The song’s cool too
up
Continued from page 15
If a student was depressed, Mrs. Kabat
said she would try to sit down with her and
try to assist her in trying to come up with
ways to help herself.
She added that she hoped students would
be aware that they had a problem and that
they could go and get the help they needed.
Seventh grader Grace R. commented that
she would try to figure out what a friend was
depressed about, and try to help them.
BY MEGAN L.
E N T E R TA I N M E N T E D I T O R
The single “School of Rock,” from the
movie School of Rock is a great hit. It is about
school and features Jack Black and Cast.
If you would be interested in a School of
Rock bookmark please see entertainment
editor, Megan Ludwisiak.
The band behind the song is Something
CorporateU.
Andre McMahon- piano/vocals, Josh
Partington- guitar, William Tell- guitar, Clutchbass, and Brian Ireland- drums.
This song is for people who like both rock
and soft rock.
This song is a five out of five.
T HE C HARGER E NTERTAINMENT F EBRUARY 2004
17
Radio is awesome for all ages American
Idol 3
B Y M O L LY C .
Cuba Gooding Jr. and Ed Harris are
awesome in this drama about a mentallychallenged man, (Gooding) who is befriended
by a small town football coach, (Harris).
Towards the beginning of the movie James
Robert Kennedy, nick-named “Radio” is quiet
and the target of most jokes told by the
football players.
When Coach Harold Jones makes friends
with Radio people become a little skeptical.
But together they grow stronger and wiser
and Radio learns that most people can be
trusted and he helps other people learn that
also.
Overall Rating: 3 Stars
Genre: Drama
Suggested audience: All ages
Rating: PG
True Crime: Streets of L.A.
BY EVIN S.
This game is rated mature. It has shooting,
driving, occasional vulgar language, and
fighting. This game is not a game for people
who don’t like any of the above listed items.
I am not telling anyone to play or buy this
game. This was a very good game, but it has
fighting and shooting. Only play this game
after asking your parents.
You play Nick Kang, a Los Angeles police
officer who suddenly finds himself joining an
Elite Operations Division that is focusing its
eye on the Chinese triads and the Russian
mafia. Nick’s itchy trigger finger makes him
the perfect
person to
Not only does the
put an end
game truly capture
to
those
the essence and
criminal
groups who
practically every
have their
street corner in Los
own wicked
Angeles, but also
scheme.
seeing it from Nick’s
The
point-of-view is quite
g a m e ’s
a feat.
missions are
sequenced
in chapters and following each mission path
is really not a requirement but rather a
suggestion since it is the only way to advance
the story. You can abandon various missions
just to spend it driving around the city and
answering 911 calls that range from muggings
to recovering a stolen vehicle driven by a crazy
ex-convict.
You also have the power to frisk people
off the streets and you’ll find that doing this
can often lead to arrests, since even
pedestrians break the law by carrying illegal
narcotics as well as weapons.
Or, you can
ignore
the
dispatcher and Only play this
simply stick
game after asking
with
the
your parents.
mission—the
choice is left
entirely up to you. This game has so many
options to play it will never get boring.
Each mission revolves around Nick’s many
talents. There are missions that require you
to be quite the driver in order to make it before
a certain time.
There are also missions that have you
putting both of your guns to work or missions
that have you using your martial arts skills
against groups of bad guys. Luckily, you have
access to 24/7 facilities that are used to
upgrade your guns, refine your kung fu moves
or teach you new driving skills.
Graphically speaking, True Crime is a most
impressive looking PS2 game. Not only does
the game truly capture the essence and
practically every street corner in Los Angeles,
but also seeing it from Nick’s point-of-view
is quite a feat.
The streets are alive with random things
that happen on any street corner and just
watching things happen around you is a rare
treat indeed.
The characters also look nicely detailed,
especially the main character in action as well
as in the cut scenes.
Overall, True Crime: Streets of L.A. has
better graphics than most of the games out
there.
BY AZIZA H.
If you have seen any of the other
American Idols, you probably know what this
one is going to be like, or do you?
There are new people, new songs, new
talent, and a new American Idol.
And wait until you meet the favorite judge,
Simon Cowell. If you have never seen the
show and do not know who Simon is, he is a
British singing and choreography judge who
could be considered “rude, mean, and a little
too honest.”
Cowell’s fellow judges are Randy Jackson
and Paula Abdul.
Randy and Paula are usually considered the
“nice ones.” You may have noticed though,
even they have been more strict this season.
As a general observation, the contestants
seem a little less talented this season. There
was the man who sang a terrible, but funny
version of a song called “She Bangs,” or the
one guy who sang, “Ain’t no mountain high
enough” like a goat.
We’ll never forget the guy who threw water
all over Simon, because he couldn’t accept
Simon’s criticism.
Overall, American Idol is interesting,
because you never know what is going to
happen next. If you ever need to laugh at
someone doing something stupid, this is a
good show to watch.
I rate this show a four out of four.
American Idol is definitely an American
phenomenon!
Overall rating:4
http://tv.yahoo.com
18
T HE C HARGER E NTERTAINMENT F EBRUARY 2004
T HE C HARGER E NTERTAINMENT F EBRUARY 2004
Home Run Inn
is a big hit
B Y A N D R E A P.
In the 1940’s the recipe for the Home Run
Inn pizzas was born. The Home Run Inn
close to our neighborhood is 1480 W. Lake
Street in Addison, across from the Marcus
Theatre.
You can eat at the restaurant or order
carry-out. The food was spectacular, it will
rock your taste buds. The servers were hard
workers.
Home Run Inn has a wide variety of food
choices. Other than great pizza, (approx. 19
toppings) H.R.I offers many appetizers,
pastas, and deserts. Try the “Cookie Monster.”
Ratings from 0-5
Food-4
Service-5
Atmosphere-5
Value of $-5
Cleanliness-4
Kid friendless-4
Overall experience-5
COMPILED BY RENA WANTUCHOWICZ, URSZULA MICHALAK,
B R I T TA N Y O L E N E K , J A C Q U E L I N E C O Z Z O N E , D A N I D A L E A N D
T H E R E S A F R A W L E Y. I L L U S T R AT I O N S B Y A M Y E L S N E R , A C A I S H A
BUFFO AND ALEX BAHENA
To Meghan
Best Friends 4 – ever!
From Taylor Zerante
To Colleen
Happy Valentines Day! You are the best in the
world.
From anonymous
To Taylor
Wazzz Up?
From anonymous
To Billy,
Happy Valentine’s Day! Hope you have a good
one!
From Anonymous
To Kara, Audrey, Jacqui, Vicky, Marissa, Danielle,
and Katie
You are the best friends anyone could have!
From Elizabeth
To Justyna
Hey,
Happy Valentine’s Day! Hope you have a good
one!
From Sabrina
To Eric’s Mom
Happy Valentine’s Day!
From Trevor
To My Mom
I love you!
From Eric
To Caron,
Meet me in my bat mobile. I’ll be dressed as
Batman, come as Wonder Woman. Luv ya
From Elliot
To Mark
You are the best!
From Mark
To Jacqueline,
Happy Valentine’s Day! luv ya
From Nick
Saves The Day
To Colleen,
I like the way you are don’t ever change
From Anonymous
Music for a lazy day
To Nick,
Happy Valentines Day! ly
From Jacqueline
The group Saves the Day’s album “In
Reverie” came out last September.
Saves the Day consists of 4 members:
Chris Conley-vocals and guitar, David
Soloway-guitar, Eben D’Amico- bass, and
Pete Parada- drums.
The word “reverie” means being in a
dreamlike state. This word perfectly explains
some of the songs on the album.
If you like alternative rock mixed with
some pop-like vocals than you’ll enjoy Saves
The Day.
On a 1-5 scale I would rate this album 3
out of 5.
To Colleen
Happy Valentine’s Day!
From Anonymous
To Kayla,
Have a Happy Valentine’s Day!! Luv ya
From Brian
To Eric,
I liked you since the beginning of 6th grade.
Happy Valentine’s Day
From Anonymous
BY JACKIE S.
19
To Meghan
Best Friends 4- ever!
From Taylor Zerante
To Rachael
Happy Valentine’s Day!
From Jay
To Colleen, Jacqueline, Tessie, Jennifer, Dani,
Judi, Taylor, Monica, Meghan, and Julia
To all my buddies Happy Valentine’s day!
From Julia W.
To All of my friends
Happy Valentine’s Day!
From Giana
To All my friends
Hey! Happy Valentine’s Day!
From Kelsey
To Kelsey
Happy Valentine’s Day!
From Eric
To Mark
You are the best!
From Mark
To Sabrina,
The best thing that happened was when I met
you
From Justin
To Colleen
Happy Valentine’s Day! You are the best in the
world!
From Anonymous
To Colleen
Happy Valentine’s Day! You’re awesome!
From Anonymous
To Taylor
Wazz Up?
From Taylor
To Sami
Hope you have a Happy Valentine’s Day!
From Kali
20
T HE C HARGER E NTERTAINMENT F EBRUARY 2004
To Colleen
Have a great Valentine’s Day! You are da bomb!
From anonymous
To Jacqueline, Colleen, Julia, Jennifer, Kali,
Amanda, and Sabrina
Hey Girls,
LYL! Happy Valentine’s Day! You guys are great
friends!
From Tess
To Sam M.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
From Brandon H.
To Audrey, Elizabeth, Jacqui, and Julia P.
Happy Valentines Day! You guys are great
friends.
From Dani D.
To Caron
Happy Valentines Day!
From Trevor
To Jackie S.
So u know
From Wayne
To Eric
Yo Happy Valentines Day!!
From Kelsey
To Sam M.
You’re a great cheerleader
From Brandon H.
To Spiky-Hair-Dude
Hey, Happy Valentine’s Day! I know you don’t
believe in that stuff but it’s the thought that
counts, right?
NO PEOPLE WE ARE NOT DATNG!
From Nene-chan
To Britt O.
Thanks for bein a great Best Friend! BBFL!
Love you lots!
From Kali A.
To the people of the Peacock School
Go Scaletta!
From Amanda P.
To Emily, Val, Lindsey, Jess, and Megan
Hey to all my BFF’s have an awesome day. I love
you all~!
XOXO
From Kacie A.
To The Student Body
This is such a good waste of a quarter.
It’s not even all that fun?!
From Nene-Chan
To All my BFF’s
Ya’ll wat ^? Thanx from bein there for me when
I needed
Ya’ll Especially Rena! Thanx Nikhil & Alex you
rule!
Cels, Heather, Just Thanx
From Amanda P.
To John C.
Happy Valentines Day!
Your secret admirer
To All my friends
Hey I would like to say what up to my friends.
Hey Damien, Baker, Amanda, Alex, Heather,
Rena, Nikhil and Mike
Happy Valentine’s Day!
From Celsey B.
To The Nakama
Hey guys, what’s up? n_n I am very glad we are
friends,
and I hope you have a very good V-day!!!
OMG A bear!!! BEHIND YOUU!!!!
From Nene-chan
To My friends
Hey, hope you have a wonderful year!
LYLAS
From Heather
To Evin
I Love You!
From Kacie
To Mitch
Happy Valentines Day!
(See you in gym)
Anonymous
To Spiky-Hair-Dude
Hey, What’s up?
Happy Valentine’s Day! Have fun! LOL!
From Anonymous
To Jay
Happy Valentines Day lyl & sooooo and
Green and yep yep yep and that’s it? Lyl
From Rachel
To Gabby, Dulce, Misa, Meg, Eve, Crystal
Hey wazz ^? Me nothing u? Well I hope you
guys have a great valentines love you all
From Abigail
To Megan
“Yo” is it hanging have a fantastic Valentine’s
Day and yeah
From Andy
To Derrick G. Emmanuel, Evin, Jeff, Frank,
Frank,
Kevin, Kevin, Zack, Nick, Andy and every 1 else
Hey to all my guys friends you’re the best! LyL
XOXO
Kacie Altman
To Anonymous
Hi Mom!
From Anonymous
To My Bestest Friends (especially Evin)
Hope you guy’s V-day is da BOMB! Let me tell
you!
lol, Lisa love you all lots!
From Kali Avermann & Laurie Chlopek
To JoJo, Courtney, Laila, Johnathan (who know
who you are),
Camille, The Grade Teachers, Emily K, Kendra,
And All you Happy Couples “Happy V-Day!
Loff You!”
From Acaisha
To My Friends
Happy Valentine’s Day! To Blaise, Courtney,
JoJo,
Ace, Julie, Pam, Emily, Julia, Claire, Jess,
Ashley, Becky, Vicky, and Danielle!
From Laila
To Alex Clancy
Happy Valentine’s Day! (How original)
From Courtney O.
To Pam
Dear Pam, my closest friend, spending time with
you is great.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Love, Dan
To The Nakama
Hey girls/guys lol what’s up?..
Hope you V-day is as good as mine LOL
LYLAS!
From Kiko-san
To Frank M.
Here’s looking at you!
Anonymous
To Zac C.
Happy Valentines Day!
From Jessica T.
To My Friends
Hi everyone and LL, IB, + Luap Udda go
Kadagay? Lol
From Trisha M.
To Zack
Hey Zack wats up? I want to wish you a
Happy valentines day.
Love ya
From Anonymous
To Urszula
Hey bff!! I hope ur valentines day is the best!!
Can’t wait to hang out again lol
LYLAS
From Paulina
To Robin
Hey!wats up? I hope ur valentines day is the
Best!! See ya soon!!
Xoxo
From Paulina
To Kali
Happy Valentines Day!thanks for always being
there for me! SFL, BFFL!
From Brittany
T HE C HARGER E NTERTAINMENT F EBRUARY 2004
To All my friends
Thanks for all the good times! Happy Valentines
Day! You’re the best guys!
From Brittany
To Paulina
Hope you have fun! Lol!
Lylas!
Happy Valentines Day!
Bff
From Robin
To Urszula
Whats up? Lol Happy Valentines Day!
Have Fun!
From Robin
To Paulina
Hey! Happy Valentines Day! C ya @ 5 lol yay.
Thanx 4 being there 4 me! Love ya lots lol
Xoxo
From Urszula
To My Advisory Mrs. Engel, Caron, Emily,
Dana, Rachelle, Jenny C., Evelyn, Misaki, and
everybody else. Happy Valentines Day! Thanx
4 everything!
Xoxo,
Urszula
To Lisa
Hey! Happy Valentines Day! Hope you have fun
and gets lots of valentines!!!
From Robin
To Zac C.
Happy Valentines Day!
From Anonymous
To Gabby
Hey! Happy Valentines! Have fun fun! Be good.
From Robin
To Abby, Crystal, Dulce, Evelyn, Evelyn,
Camille,
Robin, Cristal
Hey Girls wats up. SO yea happy Valentines Day.
Have fun.
P.S. love yea you know
From Gabriella
To Katie
Hello. Happy Valentines Day!
Have lots of Fun!
LYLAS
From Robin
To friends
Hey Paulina, Urszula, Gab, Lisa, Cristal, Megan,
Misaki, Veronica, Molly, Olivia, Kelly, Michelle,
Jenny, Tricia, Sandra, Rachel, Katie, Morgan and
anyone else I missed!
From Robin
To All of My Friends
To da best friends in da world! U know who
you
R! lol LYLAS or LYLAB!
From Aziza H.
To Zack
Hey Zack um hey happy Valentines Day! Stay
Cool and cute!
From Cristal
To Robin
LAFS! He he he. Happy valentines day. I luv
you as a friend 4 ever! STAY COOL!
From Cristal
To Megan, Sarah, Stephanie, Trisha, Sandra,
Michelle
Hey Happy Valentines Day!
I wanted to say you’re my best friends.
From Callie
To Brittany, Rachelle, Paulina, Kayla, Caron,
Rachel,
Kristyna, Lisa, Michelle M., Michella, Katie, Val
Jenny F., Kelly, Robin and all my friendz
Happy Valentines Day everybody!
Xoxo
From Urszula
To Robin
Happy Valentines Day girl! Hope we get to go
to Game works again! C ya l8er. Bye!
Lylas,
Xoxo
From Urszula
21
To Abby
Hey Abby Waz up? Happy Valentines day. I hope
we can stay friends for ever and ever
Love Ya!
From Gabriella
To Max E.
Hey nene Happy Valentines Day
I’m glad you are my valentine.
From Evelyn
To all My Friends you know who you are! We’ve
all had some awesome times. Stay sweet.
From Katie
To My BFF’s
Waz up? Evelyn, Gab, Crissy, Misaki, Abby, and
Camille Thanx 4 everything I love you’all! Best
Frindz 4 life
~Lyl~ Lylas
From Yo homegurl Dulce
To my friends
Hey Sylvia, Lisa, Maddy, Jenny, Michelle, Kelly,
Molly, Anna, Katie, and Paulina. LYL Guys!
Happy Valentines Day!
From Livvie
To Andy Ramos
Happy V-day
You know who...
To Derrick G
Happy D-day
From you know who...
Continued on page 26
Ken Majkowicz
Touch of Beauty Carpeting
Cleaning & Installation
410 Catalpa
Itasca, IL 60143
Pager: 708 817 7229
Cell Phone: 630 772 4836
22
By Alexandra B., Art Editor
T HE C HARGER E NTERTAINMENT F EBRUARY 2004
T HE C HARGER E NTERTAINMENT F EBRUARY 2004
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24
T HE C HARGER E NTERTAINMENT F EBRUARY 2004
T HE C HARGER E NTERTAINMENT F EBRUARY 2004
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26
T HE C HARGER E NTERTAINMENT F EBRUARY 2004
Continued from page 21
To My Friends
Hey Olivia, Michelle, Jenny, Lisa, Paulina, Anna,
Kelly, Molly, Tricia and Emily!
From Sylvia
To my Buddies!
Hey Michelle, Jenn, LIsa, Sylvia, Maddy, Katie,
Kelly, Anna, Robin, Emily, Michella, Brianne,
Molly, and more! Love ya, Happy Valentines
Day!
From Tricia
To Lisa, Kali, Emily, Anna, Brittany, and Olivia
Hey Guys! Wats up? Happy Valentines Day!
From Molly
To Megan Zaubi And Michelle Sener
Hey Megan! I hope you have a great year & hi
Michelle! You’re a great friend.
From Sarah Z.
To Sarah, Michelle, Mr. Larsen and Mr. Peel
Happy V-Day! Enjoy and have a GREAT day! (
love ya sis ) Thanks for being my friend Michelle
and thanks to you all!
From Megan Z.
To my friends
Hey Molly Lisa Jenny, Michelle M., Sylvia,
Maddy, Livvie, Kelly, Emily, Tricia, Amanda,
and Justin. U guys rock Happy V-Day
From Anna
To Molly and Emily
Hi losers (i.j.)! LOL!
Happy V- Day!
From Anna
To Ben
Hey! I just wanted to wish you Happy Valentines
Day!!! xoxo
From Anonymous
To Cristal H., Meg, Evelyn, Stephanie, Nicole,
Gabby, Abby, Dulce, Misaki, Robin, Crystal M.
Hey guys ! I love you all! BFF’z 4 ever Remember
RED 4 Cristal H.!
To My Friends
Hey! To my buds Kt, Steph, Jenny, Michelle, Lisa,
Livvie, Tricia, Emily, Amanda, Molly, VAl,
Rachel, and every one else. LYL!
From Maddy
To Jay E.
Hey wassup, a lot if people say I like u I dont
know where that came from but happy valentines
day anyway!
From Camille
To Chow-Chow, MIsaki, Cristhal, Abby, Megs,
Gabby
Hey wats up? Have the most kewlioest
Valentines Day eva! Lyl LYLAS BBI BFF2DF
and 2 other peeps out dur LOL!
From Crystal
To Martha
Hey! Happy Valentines Day!
Have lots of fun!
From Robin
To Kevin H.
Happy Valentines Day! LOL
Anonymous
To My Friends
Hey Michelle, LIsa, Tricia, Molly, Anna, Kelly,
Sylvia, Livvie, Val, Rachel, KT, Kristyna, Emily,
Maddy, Amanda, and more! Love Ya! Happy
Valentines Day!
From Jenny F.
To My Friends
Hey! Jenny, Maddy, Tricia, Katie, Sylvia, Kelly,
Anna, Livvie, LIsa, Molly, Val, Rachel, Kristyna,
Amanda, Steph, Emily, Natalie, and more LYL!
Happy V- Day!
From Michelle
T HE C HARGER S PORTS F EBRUARY 2004
27
Turnovers take their toll in tight season
Both boys and coach positive about their effort
Continued from page 28
the team hanging in there a little longer.”
When asked about Mr. Anderson, Evin
things, “We need to work on running the S., forward, said, “Mr. Anderson is a good
offense correctly.”
coach, and he’s thought up of some really
Finally Kevin commented,
great plays.”
“Overall we’re a really good team,
Evin had only a few suggestions
and it’s really cool playing for “Overall
for making the Chargers better. He
Peacock.”
we’re a really said, “We need to improve on
Every athlete has a best good team,
running the offense and getting
moment, especially when and it’s really fewer turnovers.”
something unpredictable happens cool playing
As a final statement Evin
during a really tense game. Colin
emphasized, “We just can’t keep
for Peacock.”
Tobin, shooting guard, recalled,
turning the ball over.”
“My best moment was when I
Every player has a game where
made the shot against Westfield, which tied they feel really good about themselves. Logan
the game. Although we lost that game, I kept M., forward, recalled the game against
Medinah. “I was shooting well and moving the
ball around.”
As for competition, Logan explained, “We
could use some work on controlling the ball
and getting less turnovers. Otherwise, we’re
all good.”
Mr. Anderson definitely thinks the team has
a lot of hardworking and talented players. He
commented, “Everyone has been working
hard and showing considerable improvement
in their games.”
Coach Anderson had a fun time coaching
this season and is looking forward to the last
four games.
Itasca Park District Teen Dance
Friday, April 30 from 7:30pm - 9:30pm
$5 per person or $4 with Lounge Card
Teen Travel Camp
(3-5 Days per Week for 6th - 9th Graders)
Non-stop fun for you and your friends! Teen Travel Camp is
designed with age appropriate activities and trips for the older
camper. An exciting trip will be taken three times a week and
the other two days will be filled with activities, local trips and
stops at the WaterPark. Campers need to bring a lunch, drink,
and snack daily unless otherwise stated on the calendar. Bring
a swimsuit, sunscreen and towel every day in the event that a
scheduled trip changes. Payment plans are available, please call
for details. All payment plans must be paid in full before
session begins.
Day
Time
Date
Fee
M-F
Jun 14-Jul 9 8:30-3:30pm $400/$420
M/W/F
Jun 14-Jul 9 8:30-3:30pm $300/$320
M-F
Jul 12-Aug 6 8:30-3:30pm $400/$420
M/W/F
Jul 12-Aug 6 8:30-3:30pm $300/$420
Call Angie with
questions at
773-2257
Fox Valley Mall Trip
Fri
Apr 2
9:00am-3:00pm
Ages: 11-15 yrs
Fee: $10/$12
Location: Fox Valley Mall, Aurora
Registration Deadline: Thursday, Apr 1
28
T HE C HARGER S PORTS F EBRUARY 2004
Eighth grade boys hang tough despite Westfield
Finish season second in conference
B Y C R Y S TA L K .
The eighth grade boys’ basketball team
had a respectable season. They finished
second in their conference with a record of
6 and 3.
As for the eighth grade talent this season
Mr. Anderson recently said, “There is
tremendous talent. All the boys are very easy
to coach and hardworking, although they
need to work on discipline in running
offenses and cutting down the turnovers.”
Mr. Anderson admitted, “We have already
faced both of our most difficult games this
season and had our hardest losses against
Westfield. One game went into overtime, and
the other was a last second shot.”
When asked about his coach, Kevin H.,
point guard and starter, commented, “Mr.
Anderson is a smart coach. He has a positive
attitude, and he definitely believes in us.”
Kevin believed the team could fix several
See Turnovers
Page 27
The eighth grade boys basketball team finished second in the conference with a 6
and 3 record. (Photo by Crystal K.)
The Bulls haven’t gotten any lucky bounces
BY GEO N.
The Bulls are having a rough season.
They are an abysmal 14-37, in eighth and
last place in the central division.
It’s been a rough season for many
reasons. Injuries to key players are
certainly a big part of the Bulls’ problem.
Tyson Chandler, who was injured for
a couple of months, finally came back
last week. Center
Eddy Curry missed
These
two weeks.
Worst of all, Jay
rookies are
Williams,
who was
the bright
drafted
second
spot in a
overall
two
years
dismal
ago, was seriously
season.
injured
in
a Chicago Bulls Kirk Hinrich, left, and Jerome
motorcycle accident Williams battle Seattle SuperSonics Reggie
in September. It is unclear whether Evans for a rebound during the first half on
Williams will ever play basketball again. Monday, Feb. 2, 2004. (AP Photo/Jim Bryant)
Kendall Gill, Eddie Robinson, Corie
Blount, Marcus Fizer, Scottie Pippen, and
Another reason that the Bulls are playing
Chris Jeffries have all been out for parts of badly could be the big trade that they made.
the season.
The Bulls traded Jalen Rose, Donyell
Marshal, Lonny Baxter, and Roger Mason
Jr. to the Toronto Raptors.
The Bulls got Antonio Davis, Jerome
Williams, and Chris Jeffries. They have
been playing well, but not as well as the
four players who went to Toronto.
One of the Bull’s rookies, Kirk
Hinrich, has been playing great. He even
won the starting point guard job.
Another undrafted rookie, Ronald
Murray, has come through for the Bulls.
He came up from the NBDL (National
Basketball Development League), which
is the development league for the NBA.
On his first night, Murray scored 18 points
and had nine rebounds versus the Miami
Heat. These rookies are the bright spot
in a dismal season.
Even though the Bulls have a big
problem with injuries, they still have some
good players. Their rookies have been
playing well. Even though the trade wasn’t
very good, the Bulls may still rebound and
start to win.