O'Neil guides seniors on trip down memory lane

The Oshkosh West This Issue: O’Neil guides seniors on trip down memory lane 2 OPINION Senior editors bid farewell to severed limbs, leftover cake, and a little bit of their sanity. NEWS 3 INDEX www.the-index. “Your source for Wildcat news” Volume 101, Issue 8 May 27, 2005 Clarence ‘Inky’ Jungwirth inspires students during Distinguished Alumni ceremony. Page 3 COMMUNITY 4-5 Lambeau Field welcomes academic competitors in “The Best In Class” celebration. Page 5 SPORTS 6-7 Softball squad reloads for future season at Page 6 IN DEPTH 8- 9 The ‘last tribe’ carries friendships and fond memories on path beyond high school. ENTERTAINMENT 10-12 Polkas and waltzes dominated the seniors came and had friends a deeper meaning the curriculum at the senior citizen come, the band would play for students than a prom on May 20, sponsored by at a modest price,” said simple extra-curricular O’Neil National Honor Society. Rice. “Our greatest group is activity. A night of classical dancing and 75 and over, then 70-75, and “I think they do it live music gave students a hands- they come from Appleton, for more than the fact on history lesson in the ballroom Neenah, Menasha, and that it’s an O’Neil event; classroom. Fond du Lac.” it’s heartwarming too,” Sara Dobish, one of the new Since its first years, she said. O’Neil NHS advisers this year, the prom has grown to Door prizes, feels the different dance styles be a popular event in the dressing up, and even the senior citizens offered helped community. crowning a senior king make the event so successful. “I think what makes and queen gave the night “Looking at all the older this event so successful is a nostalgic twist for the couples, they’re all terrific that word gets around that senior citizens. dancers, and I think the kids look people have a good time, “I think it’s great; we at that and want to learn those and it’s doing something volunteer every month dances and have a lot of fun with unusual,” said Assistant and it’s always nice to them,” she said. Principal Pete Cernohous. bring back memories,” The event started nine years “Kids get to give back to said Jackie Burns, a ago with Ginny Rice, chairperson others and enjoy themselves volunteer at the Senior of the Senior Dance Program. at the same time.” Center. Since then, Rice has continually Bonnie Bodway, a Next year, O’Neil worked with the O’Neil NHS dancer from Menasha, had NHS hopes to expand the to improve and continue the apprehensions about the prom to all students and photo by Justin Voss community-wide tradition. night, but quickly found her adults, and be involved Senior Kyle Belville gets taken for a tango at the senior citizen “ I ’ m o n t h e b o a r d o f place on the dance floor. prom on May 20, which was sponsored by O’Neil National in more events with the directors and chaperone of the “I go to the senior Honor Society. Senior Center. dance program; this is one of center in Appleton also, and “It didn’t sound like something different that we’ve our major events,” she said. I think it’s very important they really have a lot of organized “My granddaughter[Kimberly to connect with the community,” never gotten close to experiencing events like game nights, so I think Kellerman] was the president she said. “The polkas, I love those before,” she said. that’s something that we can look Even students not in of O’Neil a polkas!” into more next year,” said Dobish. few years F o r O’Neil NHS attended the prom. “I think it will be fun because the ago and j u n i o r According to senior Andrew elderly people know how to play came up K r i s t y Gebel, the night provided a chance games like cribbage that maybe with the N i c h o l s , for students to make a statement the students don’t know.” idea after a incoming in the community. The student-senior “I think it’s a really good trip to Miltreasurer relationship has been a constant waukee.” of O’Neil cause to give something back in the community, and looks to InvoN H S , to the community,” he said. “I remain so for years to come. lve ment has d a n c i n g expected fewer students, but “I think it shows that students photo by Justin Voss w i t h a n it’s good to see a lot of students today are really no different increased every year, The Steve Young Band provided live entertainment at o l d e r giving back to the community. It from students 40 or 50 years a n d e v e n the prom, including dance classics like “Rock Around generation shows that kids really do care, ago,” said Cernohous. “They still i n c l u d e s the Clock” and “It Had To Be You.” w a s n ’ t and that they’re willing to make enjoy helping the community a difference.” people from outside the city intimidating. and participating with others of Danielle Luisier, this year’s limits. “This is a very comfortable all ages.” “We started out when we setting; it wasn’t nerve-wracking second new adviser for O’Neil, by Michelle Hofmeister got this building; the deal was if at all beforehand, and it’s still believes that the night holds Cold-blooded guests heat up biology presentations Squeals of a dying mouse reverberated throughout the halls as a Savannah monitor brutally ripped open the throat of a helpless rodent. Onlookers cheered as the pained death throes finally ceased. So ended the daylong reptile show held May 20 in biology teacher John Reiland’s classroom. Former West students Brian Caulk and Stacy Schrader hosted the show, which featured a tank of 24 bearded dragon babies, a Pac-Man frog, and a variety of lizards and snakes. The number and diversity of animals attracts attendees, according to Caulk. “The students are very excited to see the animals because it’s not something they see everyday. I think they really like it,” he said. Freshman Kim Powell found the presentation to be a welcome break for the monotony of the school day. “It was interesting and much more exciting than your regular class,” she said. During the show the knowledge of Caulk and Schrader was also wonderfully displayed, according to junior Nicci Lucas embraces the dark side with eerie trilogy finale. Page 11 FEATURES 13-16 Focus: ‘Body Worlds’ fuses science and art for spine-tingling exhibit. Greathouse. The numerous exhibitions powerful. You don’t find that “I enjoyed it and I would are part of Caulk’s mission to often in nature.” definitely see it again,” she said. steer people away from fallacies Schrader emphasized the “They know a lot about value of choosing a reptile what they’re talking as a pet over the standard about.” mammalian preferences. Schrader feels “Snakes make better she benefits from the pets than cats or dogs,” show as much as the she said. “Your golden spectators. retriever can’t give you a “Knowing about neck massage.” these animals is one Although both enjoy thing, but being able educating about reptiles, to teach others is a transporting them can be unique and rewarding quite a daunting task. experience,” she said. “The worst part is Possessing a photo by Tricia Brauer hauling them,” Schrader collection of over 60 A Savannah monitor savors a live mouse during the reptile show said. “The tanks are exotic animals, Caulk held May 20. Former West students Stacy Schrader and Brian heavy.” and Schrader have been Caulk provided the reptile expertise during the exhibit. Summer shows are that often tarnish the reputations educating people with not the only way Schrader their shows for the past three of reptiles. and Caulk intend to use their “People can gain such an knowledge to continue spreading years, including sessions over the summer at the Menominee appreciation for animals that their love of reptiles. Park Zoo, and a special show aren’t well-known,” he said. “We plan on opening a pet for the park’s Zooloween Boo “There are a lot of misconceptions shop later when we finish college about reptiles; I’m just spreading and we hope to continue doing celebration. “We have a traveling show the truth.” shows at least one day a week,” Caulk’s love stems from the she said. called Reptile Files that we’ve performed at the zoo,” said unique qualities which reptiles Schrader. “It’s been a TV show bring to the natural world. “Reptiles are amazing,” on Channel 10.” by Lyssa Barker he said. “They’re stealthy yet Seniors On Gluttony, wrath, pride...Index editors say goodbye the Spot A fond farewell: by Tricia Brauer What is your favorite high school memory? “My favorite memory was when I first saw Ms. Luisier, Mrs. Dobish and Ms. Peterson.” Kyle Belville “My favorite memory is when I put a balloon in my shirt at lunch and pretended I was pregnant. People believed it!” Chong “ My favorite memory is when I played football for the first time.” Felix Schleuter “My favorite memories from West are when our soccer team had team night and we’d all hang out.” Sara Olig “My favorite memory was when I won a palm tree this year at prom.” Heather Carlson After years of dealing with delinquent good thing.” to learn how to work on a team. It’s taught writers, scarfing homemade goodies, and However, the lack of a sanitation me to be accountable and to work under . hurling balls of paper at other editors editor for the office has taken its toll on deadlines. I think this has prepared me for across the room, the Index seniors are Hofmeister. the real world. I hope to work on a college leaving behind the A-wing computer lab “I think Index has made me a stronger newspaper next year.” and the bonds formed through spending person, mostly because of the antibodies we Though she recalls some experiences countless hours of production together. develop after spending with fondness, Hirte anticipates escaping S h e l l y H o f m e i s t e r, time in the biohazard some parts of the Index experience. Rachel Hanusa, Jessica “I am excited to move on to college area that is the Index Pernsteiner, Justin Voss, and away from KJ and his silly computer office,” she said. Mandi Hirte and Neha I n a d d i t i o n t o crashing antics,” she said. “Good luck to Tannan have shared a building the immune next year’s editors with that, but I really few nightmares over the system, Voss has honed have enjoyed interacting with some of the past years. Hofmeister his skills in slaying the most talented individuals at West. I will found the close-knit greatly miss my daily dose of cynicism in undead. Index community has Senior editors Rachel Hanusa, Neha Tannan, “ M y f a v o r i t e the Index office.” prepared her for a social Justin Voss, and Jessica Pernsteiner bid a final memory of Index would Hanusa recalled the influence the life at Harvard. good-bye to all that is Index. have to be spending advisor has had on her. “Maybe we’ve “I will always remember t i m e formed an elitist cult, but we’re proud practicing the art of zombie going to Great America and of it,” she said. “We always walked slaughter when writing my how Mr. Scott kept making down the hallway together in our black Resident Evil 4 review during fun of me and scaring me as sweatshirts with skulls and crossbones on production,” he said. we went on the Giant Drop,” them. We couldn’t really tell if we looked she said. “He kept trying to According to Hirte (aka intimidating or just ridiculously nerdy.” convince me to take off my Huffy), production is more Hanusa found the most appealing part than just napping in the office safety harness so he could Index to be the longstanding tradition of and stuffing one’s face with laugh as I would plummet to my gluttony. death. I did go on the ride twice foodstuffs. “My favorite part about Index is when in a row though and I think it’s “Production was grueling we get food like cake,” she said. “I love at times,” she said. “There were my favorite.” cake and ice cream. I remember the time I many tears shed, papers thrown, Among the seniors, respect Editors-in-chief Shelly Hoftried to eat a whole cake at production but and limbs lost, but after it all meister and Mandi Hirte for Scott has grown as they that didn’t work out too well and Mr. Scott is over with there is no greater have been under his scrutiny. just made fun of me.” “Mr. Scott has definitely been the most satisfaction than sending another flawless Pernsteiner appreciates how the spread to Ripon Printers.” influential person to me through all of high germ-infested Index office has become her The emotional meltdowns experienced school,” said Hofmeister. “From having second home. from computer freezes and lack of personal him as a teacher to a journalism mentor, “I have so many memories such space have been counterbalanced by the he’s been an inspiration. He sacrifices time as relaxing in the office, writing last preparation the for life outside the office. with his family and much of his sane mind minute articles, and of course overeating “Even though there are a lot of to be with a bunch of teenagers, which says at production,” she said. “I know that if frustrations during production, I’m really a lot about his commitment to this paper. nothing else, next year there may be a glad Mr. Scott gave me the opportunity to It’s because of everything he has done for shortage of Nabisco snack crackers in be an editor,” said Hanusa. “It’s helped me us that I feel more dedication to Index than the office…and in a sense, maybe that’s a anything else.” T h e O s h k o s h W e s t Writers: Lyssa Barker, DaniScott’s commitment has extended beyond the A-wing computer lab during elle Baudhuin, Andrea Berkproduction. told, Dane Campbell, Molly “I appreciate everything Mr. Scott has done,” said Hanusa. “I would not be the Eaton, Alex Gelhar, Brittany same if I didn’t have him as a teacher for Goodrich,Brenda Goodacre, three years and as an advisor on the Index. Oshkosh West High School Abbey Graceffa, Katie Hoxtell, He has helped me become the person I am today. He has made me a better student; he Robin Karlin, Paul King, Sadie 375 N. Eagle St. has made me want to do my best in school Merrill, Katie Myers, Charlotte Established in 1903 and on the newspaper and I will be forever Nooe, Bjorn Paulsen, Alina Volume 101, Issue 8 grateful to him” Pernsteiner also feels the perks of Pontynen, Aveen Qader, Jon being an editor are not to be taken lightly. Rassmussen, Mike Rounds, Cali “I know that being an editor is a Schellenger, Liz Schettle, Stacy privilege, and I feel indebted to Mr. Scott Mr. Trent Scott Schrader, Jonna Shallbetter, for giving me this opportunity. I believe that I’ve been able to grow as both a writer Lori Sebstead, Sarah Sprangand person. I’ve truly enjoyed working Mrs. Lori Salzer ers, Collin Stecker, Brandon with him; he has given me guidance and Walker, Elizabeth Wolk, Angie leadership, yet at the same time I’ve been treated as an adult.” Xie In the end, the sense of accomplishment Mandi Hirte is incomparable. Photographers: Shelly Hofmeister “Index has been the hardest thing I’ve Keri Maguire, Susan Molski, ever had to work at, which is probably why Robby Schroeder, Brad Spanit’s been the most rewarding experience Editors: I’ve had,” said Hofmeister. “All of the bauer Justin Voss (Entertainment) tears and hard work that went into this Nick Penzenstadler (News) Graphics: Adam Spanbauer paper only makes seeing the finished product more worthwhile. I can’t explain Emily Hopkins (Features) Advertising: Brad Spanbauer the feeling of ripping open the paper and Rachel Hanusa (Community) seeing your finished page; it’s complete Erin Mathys (Sports) Non-Profit Organization satisfaction.” For Scott, parting is a sweet sorrow. Jessica Pernsteiner (Briefs) Oshkosh Area Schools “Index staffers are members of my P.O. Box 3048 Neha Tannan (Photography) extended family,” he said. “If I wasn’t so Oshkosh, WI 54902 Tricia Brauer (Photography) young, they would be like my children. It has been an honor to work with them. I am May 27, 2005 Issue #8 Nick Heidke (Production) so very proud of what they’ve been, and Cari Tetzlaff (Advertising) Visit our website: what they will be in their futures.” INDEX General Advisor: Business Advisor: Editors-in-Chief: Cathie LaCroix (Business) www.the-index.org 2 The Oshkosh West Opinion www.the-index.org M a y 2 7 , 2 0 0 5 Volume101, Issue 8 INDEX ‘Inky’ Jungwirth encourages youth to ‘go for broke’ Whether he’s working at Oshkosh Truck, writing about the history of his hometown, or volunteering, Clarence “Inky” Jungwirth has always “gone for broke.” Jungwirth was born in 1919 and lived in the “bloody sixth ward” of Oshkosh. He was fortunate enough to get a job during the Great Depression before and after school as a tailor. He then entered the Army in 1940 and was stationed in New Guinea, the Philippines, and Australia. Upon his honorable discharge in 1945, Jungwirth immediately searched for a job and began work at Oshkosh Truck on September 3, 1945. According to Selection Committee m e m b e r S u s a n H o ff m a n n , t h e Distinguished Alumni organization searches for locals who have invested themselves in the betterment of the area. “We look for someone who has given back to Oshkosh, the community they grew up in,” she said. In addition, the committee seeks someone who is a leading voice among their professional peers. “They need to be an expert in their field,” Hoffman said. Jungwirth spoke to A.P. U.S. History students after the May 6 test. History teacher Andrew Britton was extremely pleased with Jungwirth’s recent honor. “He has done so much for the community and teaching of history,” he said. Jungwirth always enjoys learning and Hoffmann was also impressed by trying new things. Jungwirth’s widespread notoriety. “So many of the students in this school “I can’t wait to get to work in the had already been introduced to him in the morning. I history classes,” get a kick out she said. of solving According problems and to Jungwirth, challenges,” he helping others said. is a key part In addition, of his life. Jungwirth “Volunteering has a lot of is in my blood. admiration for It all comes young adults. about from my “I have a experience in great love for World War IIyoung people. my empathy I have a great for human deal of respect beings and the for young knowledge that I people. I admire can help someone the liveliness of else; that’s my young people renewal,” he and zest for said. living,” he Committee said. members are Britton also in awe feels that as Jungwirth Jungwirth is an continues to extraordinary achieve such great heights. photo by Tricia Brauer man. “He is truly “ I w a s Oshkosh legend Clarence “Inky” Youngwirth was designated impressed with as this year’s Distinguished Alumni. As an avid historian and a great person,” his desire to be WWII veteran, he has shared his experiences with the next he said. a lifelong learner and his energy and desire to work into his by Katie Hoxtell 80’s,” Hoffman said. Jazz heads to Windy Kelli Heckman whisked Jazz Ensemble students away on an out of state excursion complete with a competition, a performance by the Blue Man Group, and a trip to Six Flags Great America. “This trip is meant as a reward for the commitment and dedication the students in this ensemble have shown,” she said. “Most of all I was looking forward to the students being able to enjoy the rewards of their hard work.” The ensemble competed against numerous high school performers such as show choirs and marching bands, and took home three first place trophies. Heckman’s goal for the trip was for her students to display their musical talent. “My hope was for the jazz ensemble to take everything they’ve learned so far this year and culminate it into an outstanding performance,” she said. by Lori Sebstead Spanish Core teams to facilitate freshman success Freshmen will have a tough time escaping the helpful gaze of teachers and administrators as they enter West in 2005. As a response to successful results from this year’s freshman pilot program, incoming ninth graders will be placed into groups and assigned common core teachers. The teachers will work together to build more personable bonds with students and determine which learning techniques achieve the greatest success. This year 60 freshmen were given the same core teachers. Students within this group had a 4% freshman failure rate first semester. Students outside of this group had a 17% failure rate. Superintendent Ron Heilmann feels this will help students make the jump from middle school to high school. “We have to have something in place where all students can have a level of success,” he said. The school day has not been restructured, but succesful trial periods could result in more change. “We haven’t changed the schedule at all but it may be,” leadership team member Paul Stellpflug said. “We are considering about three different models, possibly an eight hour day with only seven required, or a type of block.” Administrators are easing into change and next year won’t be a major shift, freak living on the street without a job.” according to leadership team member Bill Another attempt to strengthen bonds Steinert. with the teachers will be a change in “There’s no wholesale schedule homerooms. change, but it may come about in two years “Homerooms are going to change; only as a result to implement new programs second hour class is also homeroom,” he to solve problems.” said. “It’s to encourage the teachers to What the freshman class will be know who is in their homeroom. Teachers experiencing is an extension of the pilot will be getting progress reports to have grouping somebody else project that [Homeroom] Teachers will be getting caring about their took place grades.” throughout the progress reports to have somebody There is else caring about their grades. - Paul a c o o p e r a t i v e year. “Freshmen atmosphere will be grouped with common core carried over to how the school is analyzed teachers; English, math, social studies, and overall. science that will have the same teachers,” “What we focused on in the past Steinert said. “With the common prep time, was more teacher behavior. Students were classes can be mingled so if you have a evaluated independently,” said Heilmann. student struggling its easier to pick time Scheduling classes for next year to handle it.” is built around getting freshmen where A major goal of the program is they need to be, so there has been a small to maintain a close teacher-student postponement. relationship, according to Stellpflug. “It will delay scheduling for the “The school atmosphere is another general population,” Steinert said. “They goal; students will like it more if they have are taking time to make sure it works before more attachment,” he said. “Schools we’ve they put it out there. Traditionally by now traveled to have been more separated into we have them and I think they are aiming ‘we are the teachers’ type idea, and at West for the end of the year.” we are more of a cooperative atmosphere; by K. Hoxtell, N. Penzenstadler we don’t want you to end up a drugged out Students excelled in the Spanish language national exam that was recently administered. Senior Valerie Yost tied for eighth in the state, closely followed by senior Cari Tetzlaff in Kathy Heinen ninth. Among Spanish 4 competitors, senior Chong Lor and junior Margaret Luepke placed ninth while junior Becca Zink took fifth, placing her in the nation’s 97th percentile. “They [the students] normally do very well,” said Gladys Wisnefski, CAPP Spanish teacher at West. “It’s important for the participants, for their teachers, and for the district to know how we compare.” Along with the National Spanish Exam, students participated in the State Spanish Pronunciation Competition on April 16. Seniors Matt Gonzales, Andrea McRae and John Sprangers all received silver medals in the drama category. Senior Patricia Gunderson took silver for her memorized poem and Sprangers was also awarded silver for an impromptu conversation. Freshman Kayla Schwalbe also received a gold medal in the poetry category. “I’m not surprised, I’m impressed,” said Kathy Heinen, Spanish teacher at West. “We have serious students and a challenging curriculum.” Sprangers also wrote an alternate ending to a short story (“Jaque mate en dos jugadas” [“Checkmate in Two Moves”] that will appear in the National Hispanic Honor Society magazine. “I was thrilled to see my writing in a national publication, and I think that anything I do to refine my Spanish writing will benefit me in college.” students by Robin Karlin Stay On Track with RACE! COMPLETE SUPPLIES FOR: •DRAFTING •OFFICE •ARTIST •OFFICE EQUIPMENT •COMPUTER Explore your LifeTeen Mass Sunday @ 6 PM LifeNight 7:30 – 9 PM St. Raphael Catholic Church 830 S. Westhaven Dr 439 NORTH MAIN ST. • OSHKOSH OFFICE / ART PRODUCTS CENTER Phone: (920) 236-3420 -or- 1-800-273-1314 • Fax: (920) 236-3425 visit our web site at: www.raceop.com The Oshkosh West www.LifeTeen. www.st.raphael.org M a y 2 2003 April 11, 7 , 2 0 0 5 V o l u m e 1 0 1, Issue 8 INDEX Volume 99 issue 7 www.the-index.org 5 53 News news Student-built home opens doors to market After an entire school year of Wyldeberry Lane. The house was sold by construction and finishing touches, the Premier Agency and, according to Oman, Oshkosh West and North High School had a listed price more that $250,000, but Residential Construction class has less than $300,000. Students were able completed their project. John Oman’s to have an open house to show off their students spent four and a half months work on May 26 before the family takes building the exterior of the house and the residence. other four and a half completing the inside. “The open house is for parents, friends, According to Oman, this year’s house took administration, and the school board,” said less time than in the past, but students did Oman. “We need to show them the house have some extra so they can say, help. ‘hey, isn’t this a “It took wonderful thing? one school year We should keep to build; we are doing it next ahead of schedule year’.” from other years,” Although the he said. “This is the students were first year we didn’t able to work pour the basement inside piecing o u r s e l v e s . We together the watched it, and amenities of the photo by Rachel they did it in a This standard open kitchen is a plan feature of the house home, like the week; it would built by John Oman’s residential construction class. It took arches over the have taken us a a full school year to complete the exterior and interior of the doorways, in the month. There were home, and it will be occupied by a family on June 10. dining room, on less weekends for the French doors me to work and excess time has been and the front door, and on the cabinets, they less.” preferred constructing the exterior of the The plan features of the house include house. five bedrooms, three full bathrooms, a “The students usually enjoy more three-car garage, a standard kitchen, a outside work, the rough framing versus family room, and a utility room. The ranch- finishing the inside,” said Oman. “This is style house is about 2100 square feet with because all of a sudden they couldn’t put a 1500 square foot finished basement. their hands on the walls and they needed “There is also a formal dining room, patience. Most kids like to be out in the sun a small sun room, and a two-way fireplace and swinging a big hammer.” between the sun room and the great room,” While building the house, Oman said Oman. “This is the first time I have believed that it was important to include ever done that kind of fireplace.” extra quality in this home versus the The students played a major role in neighboring houses that were listed at the piecing together most of the rooms inside same price. For example, there are heat the house, especially the kitchen. recovery units, which help prevent mold “They got to put all of this together,” and keep a clean house; they are required said Oman. “They installed all of the by commercial buildings, but not yet in cabinets.” residential homes. The basement is finished with two “We try to go above and beyond in bedrooms and a bathroom. According to most of the stuff we do,” he said. “Whether Oman, the rooms in the basement are very it’s sound insulating, tile floors, or high spacious. efficiency appliances, just so ours is better “The family moving into this house than the builder next door because it’s will turn the basement rooms into an office in the same price range. We try to give and a guest bedroom; they are bigger than something extra whether it’s the finished the rooms upstairs,” he said. “There is also basement or the dry-walled garage.” Bay workshop down into the a big will be moving there.” home on When the house was being built and On June 10, a family from Green Oshkosh residents discovered what it means to be homeless on Saturday, May 14, when they braved cold weather and inhabited soggy cardboard boxes. The construction of the Shanty Town, aided by overseeing groups AmeriCorps, the American Red Cross, and Shelter For Life, gave Oshkosh the opportunity to experience life from the perspective of the unfortunate victims of war and natural disasters. “All over the world people who are affected by war and disaster respond in different ways,” said AmeriCorps volunteer Bob Poeschl. “We wanted to bring light to those who respond by building Shanty Towns. These towns are built from whatever could be found lying about. We asked children and their families to spend a night under the stars. This is a practical path that allows children and their families to minutely understand the struggles of someone who is homeless. So families built homes out of cardboard boxes, shared a meal, made portions of Peace Quilts, played games, listened to music and stories.” The event, held in the Grand Opera House Square, suddenly became much more realistic with the introduction of nearly finished, students began to notice what was forming from their hard work over the year. “It was great having the kids start to take pride and ownership in the job and the product that they completed,” said Oman. Oman believes that the Residential Construction class offers an alternative for students who do not cope well in a classroom. “Some kids get frustrated with the school setting and trying to keep up with other kids,” he said. “They are not judged out here. This is hands on, and they can work well out here.” Mike Kapral, a sophomore at West, agrees that this class was enjoyable and beneficial in acquiring construction tasks. “I learned how to side and build a house,” he said. “We don’t have to sit down like in the classroom; here you’re up and can talk the whole time.” North junior Ben Herman also feels that waking up to work on a house was much more exciting than sitting in a desk all day. He also felt that he had a great teacher to make this event enjoyable. “Just the experience was great; I think it’s something different,” he said. “You’re not stuck in the classroom and it’s easier to get up in the morning to come here because I don’t want to get up to go to school. Oman is a great teacher; you can’t go wrong with having a teacher like him.” Next year Oman wants to build another house on the west side of Oshkosh and will hopefully use a student’s design for the floor plan. There were 13 students who completed the home by the end of the year; Oman would like about 16-20 students in next year’s class. He believes the class is beneficial and as this year’s group continues their lives, he realizes the achievements they have made. “The students gain a great sense of accomplishment, life long skills, friendships, and some even got career opportunities,” he said. “Some of the students are going to college, some are entering the military, and others have job opportunities.” Community walks to save lives in Oshkosh People, and dogs, in the community lined up on May 21 for the third annual Walk for Hope. The walk began in the O-Room at West High School and participants had the option to either walk two miles or four and a half miles. The walk continued to Taft, Westfield, Sawyer, Oshkosh Avenue, and then back to West. The event was created to raise community awareness of the increasing number of suicides in the community. “The walk started because we wanted to bring people’s attention to the fact that we had a problem with teen suicide in the community and let people know that it’s okay to ask for help,” said Stacy Hinderacker, West social worker and organizer of the walk. “So, in a sense we are trying to shine the light on this topic and get it out in the open with this walk. We also needed to raise money for suicide prevention.” In the past years the walk has collected about $7,000 to $8,000 to go toward suicide prevention programs. There was no goal for this year, but Hinderacker hoped they would match or exceed the past years’ amounts. Similar to last year, pictures were taken of the walkers when they registered and developed when they finished the day’s activities. “We took pictures of people with their dogs and when they were out walking, then we developed them and placed them in magnetic frames by the end of the event,” said Hinderacker. Allowing the walkers to bring their pets is an integral part of the Walk for Hope. “I thought there were a lot of walks for fundraisers and I wondered how we could make this one more fun, so we decided to have dogs walk,” said Hinderacker. “Our slogan is ‘It’s okay to ask for help and important to help those who can’t ask’ so in a way, the dogs represent those that can’t ask.” Hinderacker hopes people will continue to participate in the Walk for Hope to help find an answer to fixing the problem of suicide in the area. “I think it’s everybody’s responsibility to be part of the solution in our community,” she said. “It’s not a school problem or a family problem; it’s a community problem. I think everybody needs to come together to make a successful effort at solving the problem.” The Walk for Hope is part of a local organization, the Community for Hope. Hinderacker is also a member of this nonprofit subset of Yellow Ribbon. “The Community for Hope is a ‘grass roots’ organization,” she said. “It is made up of volunteers from the community who want to be part of solving this problem. It works to inform people on the topic of suicide prevention.” When area residents gathered together to express their concern about suicide in the city, they formed the Community for Hope. “We were having too many teen suicides, so people got together and said ‘what can we do?’ and a group formed to talk about what the options were and what we could do as a community to address this by Rachel Hanusa Shanty towns built to increase awareness of home- rain and wind. Justin Harrer, a senior, people at this event, I was pleased with the believed that this event was a good way to turnout. The weather brought the element experience factors the homeless deal with of struggle that is deeply connected to the regularly in war torn importance of these or disaster stricken events” areas. Although the Even though weather was less the project looked than ideal, students to educate, Harrer had a memorable and senior Terrance time forming the Schroeder also shanty towns. attended to perform “We used tape community service. to hold the boxes “I went to clear up photo by Tricia together and plastic Two members of the community help build a some detentions and to help keep the rain shanty town out of cardboard boxes on May 14 in to spread awareness out,” said Harrer. “It the Grand Opera House Square. The event took of homeless people,” was pretty fun just place to spread awareness of people left home- said Schroeder. hanging out for a day less due to war and natural disasters. Poeschl hopes to outside even though continue the shanty it was cold.” town event within the community so more Poeschl felt that the weather during people will become sensitized to the needs the event, which lasted from 6 p.m. on of those who are impoverished. Saturday to 8 a.m. the next morning, did “We would like to make this an annual not detract from the message produced by event,” he said. “ I think that anytime this experience. you take yourself out of a comfort zone, “For the weather we had a wonderful you experience new feelings, ideas and turnout,” he said. “ We had 15 families for challenges. This is what education is all the overnight, so about 35 people overnight about—feelings, ideas and challenges.” and 45-50 took part in portions of the event. by J. Rasmussen & R. Hanusa As much as I would have liked to have more by Rachel Hanusa The Oshkosh West 4 Community www.the-index.org M a y 2 , 2 April 11, 72003 0 0 5 V o l u m e 1 0 1, Issue 8 Volume 99 issue 7 5 5 INDEX news Academic standouts bask in glory of media spotlight Fox 11 News reported from Lambeau Field and the Green Bay Packers were nowhere to be found. On May 18, top students from high schools around Northeast Wisconsin, from Marinette to Sheboygan to Door County, were recognized for a ceremony: “The Best in the Class.” About 200 students from 87 school districts had the opportunity to be filmed for vignettes on Fox 11 News; they also received a lunch and a tour of the renovated Green Bay Packer atrium. “We have a group of managers that gets together to talk about community issues and we thought we needed to recognize the top students,” said Pat Krohlow, marketing director for Fox 11. A few high schools had numerous top students; Green Bay Preble High School had twelve valedictorians present at the event. Krohlow felt that the valedictorians and salutatorians should receive recognition for their hard work and achievements. “Television spends a lot of time honoring athletes, but seldom do we dedicate this kind of time to honoring the top students; that’s why we thought this was a good program,” he said. The program, in its fourth year, opened with Fox 11 News anchors Tom Milbourn and Brooke Bradley, who welcomed the students, introduced the sponsors, and awarded door prizes. Milbourn believes that the students’ involvement in school has prepared them for college. “Those who have been able to spread themselves around and be diverse in different areas are preparing themselves well for next year,” he said. Milbourn feels that the work the students have done throughout their educational careers has set the path for success. “As soon as you start your next step you need to move on from high school and adjust to the next level,” he said. “The preparation you’ve done is so important, it builds on.” Jay Zollar, vice president and general manager of Fox 11, thanked the sponsors of the event: Marian College, Cellcom, and the Green Bay Packers and shared a piece of advice with the “Best of the Class.” “I’m a big fan of eagles; they are one of the most fascinating creatures,” he said. “They have resolving power. If you find something you’re really passionate about, resolve yourself to get it.” Marian College is the exclusive educational sponsor for this event. Spokesman Steve Prestegard explained that this is an important achievement in the students’ lives. “Being here today is probably the biggest accomplishment in your lives to this point,” he said. “Excellence and accomplishment is worthwhile in and of itself. Doing something well is an award in itself.” Following Prestegard was Cellcom’s Dan Fabry and the last speaker of this part of the ceremony was Green Bay Packer Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer John Jones; he explained the importance of values. “Excellence is one of those values we feel the Green Bay Packers represent,” he said. “Each of you represents excellence in some way at your schools. There are a don’t think they will have any problems.” lot of social distractions and freedoms and having your Bridget Duffy is preparing to go to college at the own values are important during your freshman year of University of Wisconsin-Madison and feels that her college.” efforts, encouragement from family and difficult classes After the sponsors congratulated the students, the have prepared her for her future education. guests had the opportunity to eat a free lunch, go on a “I was motivated by my family,” she said. “Taking tour of the atrium, or begin honors, A.P., and advanced their 30-second vignettes. A classes has really been tough few of the students were able and a challenge in keeping a to take part in video clips decent GPA, but I’m glad that outside with news reporters. I pushed myself because it’s John Nolle, regional sales paying off and I feel ready for representative for Fox 11, college.” explained that the vignettes Darcy Duffy is proud of her would begin at the end of daughter and agrees that the May and continue until midclasses offered to her were August; the clips will be beneficial in paving the way shown during the news and for college courses. followed by a commercial photo by Rachel Hanusa “I’m proud; it’s nice to see that Valedictorians Spike Carpenter (West) and Bridget Duffy (North) from one of the sponsors. her hard work paid off and “From a pure community were among 200 Valedictorians and Salutatorians of Northeast Wis- she can achieve her future consin to gather at Lambeau Field for a recognition by Fox 11 News. standpoint I think it’s just goals,” she said. “I’m glad awesome, I think it’s the only way I know of that the about the opportunity she had at North to take challenging valedictorians are truly recognized,” he said. “It’s the classes and get a head start for college.” only thing I know of that recognizes the top students in For some of the valedictorians at the Fox 11 News Northeast Wisconsin.” event, this has been a goal for many years, but for others, North High School has two valedictorians that were like Spike Carpenter, it became a passion when he entered recognized at Wednesday’s ceremony, Bridget Duffy high school; his motivation was to earn money for college; and Danielle Leach. Duffy was glad to be honored for he will be attending University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. her achievements; she felt that it was appropriate that “I’ve wanted to be valedictorian since my freshman academics were given recognition. year,” he said. “I wanted to make it easier on my parents “I thought it was an honor and it was nice to be and have college all paid for.” recognized,” she said. “Athletics get a lot of attention, so Bridget Duffy, on the other hand, has had this dream it was nice to see academics get spotlighted as well.” ever since she was in middle school and after she saw her Bridget’s mom, Darcy Duffy, also thought Fox 11 sister graduate with the honor. gave these students a great opportunity to be congratulated “There are a lot of people who are very talented at on their hard work and believed that the location of the North and West and I am proud to be able to have had event was a fun bonus. others pushing me to work hard in high school,” she said. “I thought it was a nice opportunity for kids to get “To be valedictorian has been a goal of mine for awhile some recognition and for many parents to watch their and I’m excited that it’s coming true. My sister was kids,” she said. “I like watching my kids in all their valedictorian at North in 1998, so ever since I’ve felt that different activities and this was another nice experience. to be valedictorian was a realistic goal.” It was also nice to get to see the new Green Bay Packer According to Spike Carpenter, it was not easy trying atrium.” to hold onto the top position in the class, however the Spike Carpenter, a valedictorian for Oshkosh West, struggle was worth the effort. was also present at the event. He was one of three students “Keeping my GPA was one of the most difficult things from West that were invited, and felt it was a special way I have ever done,” he said. “At first it wasn’t that big of to be congratulated on his achievements. a deal, but once I got into my junior year I realized how “I thought it was an honor to be recognized statewide close I was.” for such an accomplishment,” he said. Next year brings new aspirations for the valedictorians; Patricia Carpenter, Spike’s mom and a study hall for example, Spike Carpenter will be attending the advisor at West, believed this was a well organized event University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, but hopes to decrease and feels that the students were able to realize that their the amount of pressure and stress that he has combated years of work and studying paid off. throughout high school. “I think it gives them a sense of self worth when they “My goals for next year are simple: loosen up, have work that hard at something and I think the recognition fun, and get a few B’s,” he said. they get reinforces that the work they did was worth it,” she said. “The study habits that you need to get to where by Rachel Hanusa they ended up this year will serve them well in college; I Bartell’s Studio Inc. Photography by Jennifer Barbian, CPP Class of 2006 Seniors: It’s not too early to start planning your senior portraits! 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Koeller St. Oshkosh, WI 54902 North Side 920/426-0699 Office: 1860 Jackson St. Oshkosh, WI 54901 Berlin 920/361-9917 Office: 754 Greentree Mall Berlin, WI 54923 M a y 2 2003 April 11, 7 , 2 0 0 5 Volume 101, Issue 8 INDEX Volume 99 issue 7 www.the-index.org Community 5 5 5 Runners groom skills to prep for state competition The Wildcats will face both familiar In a dramatic contrast to last year’s and unfamiliar competition at the regional squad, the boys track team has made a name for itself as a top contender in the and sectional meets. “Neenah showed that they’re a very FVA. Placing at the bottom of the conferstrong team at the conference ence last year, the boys meet. Manitowoc always have come full circle with brings some good athletes a fourth place finish at the and we haven’t seen them conference meet on May yet this year, and Hartford al18. Now with the postseaways has a good track team,” son upon them, the boys said Rueckl. “It will be very have high hopes of sending close if we want to get some a few athletes to LaCrosse. guys through to state.” “Unless something bad As the season has proor unexpected happens, gressed, lack of depth has I know we can get some proven to be a greater and guys to state,” said head greater obstacle for the girls coach Shane Rueckl. “We track team to overcome. The want to send Joel [Utecht] lineup consists of a few exand hopefully some relays. ceptionally solid competitors, We’ve loaded up our relays photo courtesy of but without a wider spectrum and put less people in inMarty Mathys dividual events. I think we Senior Trudy Brawn paces herself of runners, the team has had have enough talent to get as she competes in the 3200m difficulty scoring a sufficient relay at Oshkosh North on May number of points. Fortunatesome guys to state.” ly, the squad has enough talAs competition heightent to hopefully get some girls through the ens, the squad will have to put more focus regional, sectional, and ideally to state. on the minute details of their relays. “At regionals we want people to place “We’re trying to get as much as we can in the top four and at sectionals, place in out of the relays,” said Rueckl. “The last three or four meets we’ve been getting our the top three so they advance to the next times down, but they still have to drop quite meet,” said sprint and jump coach Lori a bit. We’ll need to really hit our exchanges Salzer. “We want to send as many people as we can to state; we’re hoping for a few and stretch them out.” surprises.” Exterior factors have hindered the girls’ ability to compete at the level necessary for postseason meets. “The weather has been pretty bad since the beginning of the outdoor season, so we have had a hard time improving our times,” said senior Aimee Kasten. “But now, with nicer weather, I think we’ll begin to do a lot better.” Seniors play an important role in affecting the performances of the underclassmen. “Kelly Conrad and Megan Pelky are great leaders,” said Salzer. “They lead the team by example and show the others how to do what needs to be done.” Although the spring sports season is short, the track competitors have put in a significant amount of time and effort. Now, with the key meets upon them, the athletes are ready to cash in on their investment. “We did the hard work early, and now we just need to stay focused and have good confidence,” said Salzer. “Right now I think the staff can just encourage the kids to stay positive; there’s not a lot we can do to change the outcome at this point.” The State track meet will take place on June 3 and 4 in LaCrosse. Best in conference... Golfers tee up for more Depth and consistency are prominent traits of the 2005 boys golf team. Boasting a strong core of seniors and also a few solid juniors, the squad has spent the last few months preparing for a noteworthy finale. A first place finish at the conference meet on May 20 could be just the beginning. “I’d say that we’d like to win regionals and sectionals, and qualify for state as a team,” said head coach Bill Brabender. If the Wildcats do not advance to state as a team, individuals will still have that chance to advance at the sectional meet on May 31. “Individually, everyone is capable if they have a good day at sectionals,” said Brabender. The squad plans to stick to its practice routine that they’ve followed since the beginning of the campaign. “We’ll keep doing what we’ve been doing all season,” said Brabender. “We’ve been working hard at practice and fine tuning their game. We just want to get as many rounds in as we can and continue the progress we’ve been making all season.” Senior Aaron Spaulding uses his free time to hone his skills. “I practice every night, even outside of our regular team practices,” he said. “I usually practice chipping and putting at the Lake Breeze Golf Club in Winneconne.” Brabender believes the depth in his lineup is the team’s greatest strength. “We have a good balance of guys who are all very close in ability,” he said. Driving prowess aids them in their success. “As a team we hit the ball a great distance,” said Spaulding. “I shoot a 270yard average, which is actually one of our shortest.” Lead by five seniors, the squad is always learning and improving by following their example. “The senior class has a lot of leaders,” said Spaulding. “I think myself and Jake Hansen have really helped to put everyone in the right frame of mind.” The squad will strive for consistency as it nears the postseason. “The season has been kind of up and down, but for the most part it’s been going pretty well,” said Spaulding. “The two losses we had we played horribly, besides that, as a team we’ve been solid for the entire year.” To advance to the state tournament, the Wildcats will need to defeat many talented teams at both regionals and sectionals. “Neenah will be great competition as well as Fond du Lac,” said Spaulding. “I think Sheboygan North and us will be top in the sectional.” Brabender is comfortable with the boys’ play throughout the year. Although the season wasn’t perfect, they’ve established themselves as a team ready to compete at the highest level. “Everyone has bad days,” he said. “It’s tough to play well all the time. We’ve recently come out of a mid-season slump during which we lost twice.” Since the losses, the Wildcats have been successful. “At this point in the season I believe we’re at the top of our game,” said Brabender. The boys will compete at the sectional meet on May 31. If they advance, they will attend the state meet on June 6 and 7. Softball squad offers hopeful snapshot of future Sometimes you have to give a little in order to get a little. This year, the softball team has had to give a lot. In order to achieve success in the future, the team has focused on rebuilding this season. They have four sources of untested talent this year, as they added four freshmen to their ranks. In the future, these novices will have the experience necessary to carry the squad. As for now, their inexperience has come with a price, as their record stands at (5-13). Head coach Dave Christman believes that inexperience has been a factor in the results. “We’re the youngest team in conference, and our record reflects this,” said Christman. “We have lost all of our close games, including three extra-inning games.” Even though they have had a rough season, Christman believes the team has definitely enhanced their game. “We’ve gained valuable experience by by A. Qader, E. Mathys G d oo tF ea r ! ~Catering ~Specialty Salads ~Cold & Hot Subs ~Pocket Pizzas ~Pasta Specialties ~Chicken & Fish No Gimmicks, Just the Goods (920) 651-1919 “We have a wide variety of ages on our learning from our mistakes,” he said. “This team. One problem is that we don’t know is partly because we’re young.” each other very well, both personally and as Junior Melissa athletes,” said Woehrer. Wenig believes the “But on the bright side we addition of underare young, and have a few classmen creates a more years to grow and positive outlook. adapt to each other and However, they may the pace of the game.” currently prove costChristman believes ly. that the team has really “We have four come together, and their freshmen and all four respect for each other is of these athletes start reflected on the field. most of the time. It “Team unity is our will affect us posistrength,” he said. “Some tively in the long run. teams that have a losAs for now, we make photo by Tricia Brauer little errors that really Junior Melissa Wenig fires a pitch towards a ing record start to point hurt us,” she said. Kimberly opponent on May 20. The Wildcats fingers and that leads to dissent. This team has Freshman Kelly won 9-0 in seven innings. stayed together from day Woehrer believes that the young team is not only a weakness, one of practice.” The formula for success appears but also a strength. achievable. Limiting mistakes and putting hits together are key ingredients in improving the team’s fortunes. “We often make one small mistake, and that leads to more mistakes,” said freshman Lisa Hart. “We can hit the ball; we just need to get more hits in one inning Gr in order to get our runs.” ea Effective practices are a must for tS erv Christman’s squad. ice “What player ! reflection ofahow thatdoes in games is a player approaches practice,” he said. “Are you practicing to improve or are you just putting in your time?” Christman is very confident that this team understands the key to success – that wins will come with positive mental attitude. “Developing a mind-set that accepts nothing less than winning is what our team needs,” said Christman. If the squad advances through regionals, they will compete on May 31 in a sectional match-up. FEATURING 700 W Murdock by Sarah Sprangers by Erin Mathys The Oshkosh West 6 Sports INDEX www.the-index.org M a y 2 7 , 2 0 0 5 Volume 101, Issue 8 JV Spotlight: Learning the ropes an athletic path to stardom freshman Megan Kilber. Getting the better of North was just An array of talents guided the J.V. one of the girls’ aspirations for the season. boys track team to a triumphant conclusion. Sophomore Allie Braun hoped to boost her Although the squad consisted of mostly batting percentage. “I really wanted to hit more this freshmen and sophomores, the bar was set high and athletes competed with intensity season,” she said. Increasing interaction on the field was in every race. a top priority for “ W h e n the Wildcats. you run with “Commuother guys from nication was tougher schools, something they pull you I wanted to along and you improve on try to run better this year,” said in the race,” Braun. “At the said sophomore beginning of the T a n n e r year I was shy, Hielsberg, whose but by the end I specialty is the learned how to 1600-meter run. be a leader.” U s i n g Structured practices as a practices proved means to polish photo by Tricia Brauer beneficial for performances, Junior Zach Bennett sprints toward the finish after receiving a the squad. novices quickly handoff in the sprint relay at the J.V. conference meet on May “We worked gained skill and 19. The boys track team had one of its largest teams in history on a lot of game confidence in this season. situations with order to fulfill the coaches, and that really helped,” Braun high expectations. “The long runs build a base so you can said. “Working with the varsity team really run the speed workouts at a quicker pace helped us too.” The girls worked on base running and and compete better,” said Hielsberg. “It is also important to be mentally prepared and fielding with the varsity softball squad think about the race and nothing else that during one of their practices. Practicing game situations can help them adjust and goes on.” Hielsberg’s objective of being react more quickly during games. Overall, mentally prepared and confident coincides the girls had an exciting season. Besides with distance coach Matt Zimmerman’s beating Oshkosh North, the team had two homeruns, one by Ashley Crow and one expectations. “Through working hard in practices, by Allie Braun. “I got a homerun this season, and improvement is going to show in meets,” he said. “There used to be a lot of tentativeness it was my first one, so that was pretty exciting,” said Braun. when competing, but not any more.” Zimmerman has seen enough of this year’s squad to inspire optimism for 20052006. The team proved to have a strong Pitching away the turmoil that put a interior. Over the last couple of months, damper on the junior varsity baseball J.V. athletes have proved their dedication team’s success in the early season, the and now hold promising places as future players have slowly found their niche in the FVA. Head coach Wayne Gerharz varsity athletes. “The guys came in without a lot of believes that effort in practices honed the miles in and we started out slow,” said skills of the young players and paved the Zimmerman. “But they began to really way to a more satisfying season. “We warm up and work on basic improve and compete well. We hope to get routines that we do everyday. We do them back next year.” individual and team drills to work on fundamentals and strategy,” he said. “We finish off with batting practices.” Dousing cross-town rival Oshkosh Luckily, the coaches were greeted by North, the J.V. softball team concluded an untested group of athletes ready for their season in style. Many wins and anything. Although the team was faced achievements highlighted their year, but with challenges, each determined player this particular accomplishment stands found a way to positively contribute to the out. game. “Beating Oshkosh North was one of “It was tough at first because I didn’t our goals, and we beat them twice!” said know what to expect,” said freshman Boys Track Matt Boyce. “But I think I found my role, learned what to expect and played that way.” It is important for each player to gain experience and perfect their performance. Gerharz expects the athletes to stay dedicated and to be productive on the field. While a flawless season is already out of the question, improvement and goals are still in plain view. “When practices are enjoyable, games are enjoyable,” he said. “When things don’t go as good, players can question commitment.” Gerharz believes another goal of the J.V. program is to guide them into becoming respectable people. “Hopefully players will learn to deal with adversity and become better players and better people,” he said. According to Salzer, there is one unique skill the J.V. athletes must acquire. “Work ethics are especially important because most athletes do multiple events and coaches are not always with them,” she said. “They need responsibility and I need to trust that they are doing their workouts.” Girls Soccer Boys Baseball Girls Softball Remarkable work ethic, compelling aggression, and confidence on the field are the underlying factors contributing to the junior varsity girls soccer team’s success. Freshman Jacqui Kraemer believes that she has developed individually and her team has progressed as well. “I have improved a lot on team awareness and knowing where my teammates are,” she said. “As far as team improvements, we talk a lot more, and have gotten better at encouraging each other at practice Displaying tremendous efforts and in games.” New head coach Anne Kislewski is through young talent, the junior varsity also very impressed with her team and how girls track team concludes their season atop a strong foundation. By enhancing far they have come since the beginning of the season. skills, sprint coach Lori “We have great Salzer believes that the teamwork and we are younger girls evolved more aggressive now,” throughout the season. she said. “We saw some Unique practices great improvement consisting of conditionfrom the younger girls ing, like running on who are typically J.V. garbage hill or around athletes,” she said. the soccer fields, and Similar to the practicing game situavarsity level, the tions, have facilitated girls have demanding the achievements of the practices and high photo by Tricia Brauer expectations. Freshman Sophomore Kali Cerroni takes control of the ball squad. “We would go over Kesley Jones, who as she prepares to pass to a teammate on May 19 against Neenah. Anne Kislewski is finishing corner kicks a lot in competes in the practice and then as we grueling 3200m and her first year as coach. played our games, the 3200m relay, believes number of goals scored on us on corner that perfecting skills through practice kicks went noticeably down,” said Kraecontributes to individual improvement. “I work on my speed work and picking mer. Sophomore Lindsay Reichenberger up my pace during long distance runs. It is also noticed another improvement in their very important to have strong endurance,” she said. “It is also important to push playing. “At the beginning of the season, some yourself in practice and compete hard.” teams we played beat us by a lot, but when According to freshman Elizabeth Collins, who participates in sprints and we played them again, the games were field events, the coaches have been very much closer,” she said. Overall the team did well this season influential. with three wins, three ties, and five losses “I have improved because of the coaches. They give a lot of support, and according to Kislewski. The depth of the always cheer you on,” she said. “They team and their attitudes towards soccer also give you more goals for later in the were important factors in the players’ season. season.” “It went really great because we have Seniors play a leadership role for 19 strong players that I can play, and they girls who are searching for future varsity are all awesome in their positions,” said positions. “I definitely admire Trudy Brawn Kislewski. Girls Track because she inspires me and is always there to give me advice and direction,” Jones said. by A. Berktold, A. Graceffa DESTINATION DRIVING SCHOOL, INC. Tired of waiting? 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As the class progressed from their days of freshman foibles to plagues of senioritis, life lessons, indestructible friendships, and unforgettable memories have been forged. As graduation approaches and the “last of the tribe” prepares to embark on their life after Snowblast, Prom, and Wildcat preferred parking, they will carry with them fond memories of yesterday, and promising dreams of tomorrow. “I got lost so many times my first year,” said Amy Haidlinger. “I didn’t even know how to follow the tiles on the floor right.” Life as underclassmen held many obstacles concerning navigation and transportation. Many seniors can recall arriving in style via mom’s mini van. “For Morp I had to sit in the front seat with Marti’s [Kallas] mom when we were driving to the dance while he sat in back with Nick Pascerella and Nate Haag,” said Amy Roeder. “It was so embarrassing.” Though many have since received their driver’s licenses, the fun, friends and haunting moments of humiliation often associated with West dances will always be remembered. “For homecoming one year four of us couples went out to dinner at the Roxy,” said Cali Schellenger. “All the girls ordered the same thing, the chicken caesar salad with ranch dressing. When they brought out the boys’ food they brought out our little saucers of dressing. Kelly [Potratz] looked at the waitress and with the worst attitude yelled ‘I didn’t order soup!’ We’re never going to let her forget that.” While dinner and the dance were the perfect conclusion to each year’s Indianfest/ Westfest homecoming activities, nothing will ever take the place of the Friday night football game. “The best was the last homecoming game when my friends and I made a float out of David Leonard’s truck and tailgated at Titan,” said Samantha DeZur. “Football games were always fun. It didn’t even matter that we were sitting outside in the freezing cold with 16 layers of clothes on because everyone was there with you.” Luckily many students were able to escape from the cold Wisconsin climate over the past four years. With the guidance of staff members such as biology teacher Sara Dobish, many members of the graduating class have had the opportunity to travel far beyond city limits. While on a summer trip to the Bahamas, Logan Griedl got a taste of an exotic ecosystem, literally. “I just wanted to see what aloe tasted like,” he said. “Eating it gave me the worst stomachache ever; probably because it’s a known laxative. It was so gross.” Indigestion is not the only misfortune Griedl’s mouth has gotten him into over the past four years. He traces one of these unlucky experiences to West’s own media center. “The best is walking into the library pre-tending to chew gum and having Zitzelberger yell at you,” he said. “Then he’d stop and look in our mouths and see nothing there; then we would do it all over again. Yeah, that was the best.” Faculty members were often the subjects of student’s outlandish practical jokes. Dobish herself was the victim of one such occurrence. “ (Kris Hanson and Mike Ulrich) not only moved my car but stole it one time,” she I went to the boys bathroom but it was dark and the lights were off. I tried to feel my way around, but I couldn’t, and apparently I was in the girls bathroom. Coach came in and I was like uh, I’m a guy.” Students such as Condor used their involvement in after school activities to fine tune their creative side. “I’ll miss yearbook because of the atmosphere and creating good memories for people,” she said. “I’ll miss DECA because I like working in the school store and creating promotions and advertising.” her junior year. “I remember we were reading Cold Mountain and I found the book really moving to the point of tears sometimes,” she said. “ A couple times during class when we were having discussion, Mrs. [Joanna] Morey started crying right along with me. I think she’s an amazing person and an extraordinary teacher.” Staff will not be the only individuals students will have a hard time saying goodbye to. As graduation looms on the horizon many believe they will not only miss close friends, but the dynamic composition of their class as a whole. “There’s a lot of people that I see every day that aren’t necessarily my good friends that I’ll see after high school, but Among the most committed extra are good acquaintances,” said Alison Powell. curricular participants are the casts of West’s “I think I’ll really miss those people and many theater productions. Involvement in coming here to see them every day.” the musicals, one act and spring plays were Graduation is a mixed blessing for other not only mentally but physically taxing for students. many of the seniors. “I’ll miss some of the people I’ve met who “We were doing a play rehearsal for the I won’t be seeing on a regular basis anymore,” Jack Club scene where I have to be a sexy said John Ackerman, “but that goes hand in CIA agent,” said Rayen Singletary. “I was hand with the fact that I’m happy I won’t be doing a sultry walk and I was swinging my seeing some people anymore.” hip too hard and I swung it out of its socket According to Ackerman a break in the and I fell.” monotony of high school life will also be a The work put into the spring play paid refreshing. off as the group celebrated success with an “I’m really looking forward to being off old tradition. on my own and having a change of pace “It was the last day of the spring play and from the life I’ve been used to for the past it was time for the ceremonial dunking. In 12 years,” he said. the depths of my soul, my dear soul, I kept Jenny Maschke, who is preparing for her the secret that I, the student director and freshman year at the University of Wisconsin veteran of shows, had never been dunked,” Oshkosh, agrees. said Analicia Busha. “So, after all the young “I’m really looking forward to being more kids got drenched in the water, I gaily ran independent and experiencing a new way to the dressing room to see the sad faces,, of life.” however, along the way my secret was made Drawing on an array of high school known to the cast, due to my big mouth, experiences at West, seniors refuse to and I was marched out to the kiddie pool commence without leaving behind a few and humiliated by having a bucket of water choice words for following generations of poured over my head. I cried like a little girl, Wildcats. According to Ashley Phillips, it is and ran home to my mother so she could important to make every moment at West cuddle me.” worthwhile. With the numerous events, organizations, “Have fun, hang out with friends, and and stress associated with school, students meet new people. I’ve met tons of new will miss the mentors that have ushered them people over here over the years , and learned through turbulent high school years. Like a lot from them. More than any other year many of her peers, DeZur treasures a unique senior year is the best. Really involve connection she formed with a teacher yourself and most importantly, f r o m have fun.” Finishing the final chapter... Make the most of every second because the memories you make with your friends are the ones you’ll hold on to and be able to look back on with both smiles and tears. said. “We were outside doing presentations for class and they rolled by and said that they needed money so they could fix my headlight.” Transportation of any sort was a necessity as the 05’ class made yearly trips to the WIAA State Basketball Tournaments. Students not only enjoyed cheering on their classmates in competition but soaking up the city’s local color. “I’ll never forget going to the games in Madison and just walking around State Street, going in shops, meeting people and being with my friends,” said Justin Cox. Others enjoyed the festivities in the game crowds including the presence of the Wildcat mascot, the infamous “peel bananas” cheer and a wide spectrum of student participation. “I’m always going to remember Kyle Belville being ‘raptor boy’ at most of the basketball games my junior year,” said Caley Condor. Tenniss meets had their own breed of sideline follies. Senior Ben Bittner found himself in uncharted territory when he took a much needed break before the intense competition. “At the tournament at Wauwautosa West, I drank like three whole Gatorades and I was in pain,” said Ben Bittner. “Coach Ashenbrenner wouldn’t let me pee in a bottle in the van or on a tree, so The Class of 2005 Commencement Spread by Mandi Hirte Kolf Sports Center * June 7, 2005 * 7:00 pm Warner Bros release Waxes horrific in latest suspense thriller Softened by the harsh glare of a tired premise and the presence of an amateur internet vixen, House of Wax may appear to the average viewer to be in danger of melting away before the advent of summer. However, an engaging plot line and an eerie town straight from the nightmarish Texas Chainsaw series manage to salvage this latest Warner Brothers release. Wa x o p e n s b y introducing viewers to a living, breathing cliché. A group of friends, oddly encompassing the entire range of social class, embarks on a camping trip. How original. The clique decides to call it a night when a detour routes them into a suspiciously forlorn forested area. In the morning, one of the cars has been vandalized (most likely by a rabid chipmunk or Yogi the Bear gone bad), leaving Wade (Jared Padalecki, Gilmore Girls) and Carly (Elisha Cuthbert, The Girl Next Door) stuck in their campsite. While the rest of the group finds the magical yellow brick road toward the highway and civilization, Wade and Carly choose door number two, a search of the nearby ghost town for an able auto mechanic. Aimless meandering plants the couple in front of the town’s infamous House of Wax. After a brief tour, the couple is accosted by the town’s auto repairman. A search for the missing part ends up with a missing Wade, and Carly flees in terror from the gothic Mr. Goodwrench. After giving up on snarled traffic, the remaining group of friends returns, only to discover Carly and Wade are nowhere to be found. Not surprisingly, they enter the town and begin a frantic search. Apparently, nobody has a cell phone or can remember 9-1-1. (Blame it on Paris.) They too come in contact with the mysterious House of Wax and soon recognize that one of the figures bears a striking resemblance to the missing Wade. Dalton (Jon Abrahams, Boston Public) doesn’t exactly do good buddy Wade any favors as he peels away folds of skin, layers of muscle, and eventually the entire head. Boy Scout training pays off. Opening weekend couldn’t have been worse for Wax. Low customer turnout could be partially blamed by the cast, which includes Paris Hilton. When Hilton isn’t taking off her clothes or sharing steamy, intimate moments with her boyfriend Blake (Robert Ri’chard, Coach Carter), she’s butchering her dialogue. Hilton’s on screen chemistry with neighboring trees was stronger than what she mustered up for fellow actors. Hilton sleepwalks through her performance, one best fitted for night vision indeed. Glazed eyes and wooden delivery rapidly consign her to a future of reality television and low-rent magazine appearances. Rather than flinching in terror, audiences will soon be rooting for the bloody demise of the arrogant heiress and the gratuitous presence of lacy lingerie more suited for adult film than a trek through the forest. Chad Michael Murray (Freaky Friday) playes Carly’s darker twin brother, Nick. Unlike past appearances as a teen heartthrob hottie, Murray turns sinister in Wax and makes adoring fans love him that much more. Once viewers adjust to his shadowy appearance, they will soon bond with the movie’s protagonist. In true Hollywood fashion, he evolves from the suspicious sideline character to the heroic leading man.Although little-known actress Elisha Cuthbert created authentic on-screen chemistry with Murray, she hardly appears ready to carry a feature-length film. The couple’s relationship is both believable and engaging as her very dramatic and realistic facial expressions shine through each scene. As opposed to the flat-faced, monosyllabic, soporific Hilton, Cuthbert will manage to connect with audiences. Clashing with many other discount Dark Castle movies, including The Grudge and The Amityville Horror, Wax doesn’t attempt to scare audiences with low-budget special effects. Instead, this flick relies on old fashioned suspense to cue audiences to upcoming events. Any veteran horror buff can smell the tone of terror emanating from small town dysfunction from a mile away. The small, isolated town reeks of psychotic killers, and the gas station just begs to have a bloody body dragged through it. Like most horror flicks nowadays, the ending drops serious hints toward a sequel. Luckily, viewers won’t have to worry about a return appearance from Ms. Hilton (unless it’s as a zombie, but who could tell?). Despite some butchered scenes and choppy dialogue, Wax provides an eerie plot, quick jolts, and nine bucks worth of guilty pleasure. In an attempt to dethrone the reigning kings of the racing genre, Microsoft has released their new white-knuckle simulation, Forza Motorsport. In an all out race to the finish, Forza edges out the competition by a hair. FM boasts a variety of game play modes including classics such as Career, Arcade, and the ever-popular online Multiplayer. Arcade is the standard race through different tracks to unlock snazzy cars that it has always been, but Career takes on a different approach to the overused option. In Career mode, gamers must select a home region from which they will begin their epic-racing career. Player’s home region determines what tracks will be available and the rarity of certain vehicles. For example, it is much harder to find a Corvette in Asia as opposed to North America. A vehicle’s rarity plays an important role in a player’s Career, affecting both credits received for winning races and respect from racing companies. Credits are used to purchase both new cars and upgrades for current vehicles, while respect from driving companies can be used to get discounts on various products. After successfully completing all of their home region’s races, players will be able to move on to other countries and display their racing prowess to foreign fans. Sadly, both single player modes can become extremely overdone and drain hours of valuable time from gamers in an Competitive edge drives Forza ahead despite faulty graphics effort to unlock every last vehicle. These modes become tedious and lose their appeal after the first several hours. While not blazing through races at break-neck speeds, competitors are presented with a plethora of options for tricking out their current ride. They can tweak their engines, suspension, and other mechanics, or customize their car by blessing it with aesthetically pleasing body kits and gadgets. The variety and selection amongst the upgrades is a nice touch, but isn’t at all innovative. Controls in FM are simple, yet incredibly difficult to master. Drivers will find themselves skidding around the easiest of racetracks attempting to make simple turns. The learning curve is steep, and will give even experienced racers a run for their money. However, after the first few frustrating hours of hair pulling and controller smashing are through, the races will becomeall the more exhilarating. Once the turning mechanics and brake troubles are solved, FM straightens out and runs like a well-oiled machine. Races become highly addictive and almost impossible to resist as one climbs to the top of the racing ladder. Following in the footsteps of its racing predecessors, visuals in FM are breathtaking and cars look almost lifelike, until the race begins. Cut scenes in FM are on par with the standard of today’s other racing titles, but actual game play visuals are pitiful. Cars look absolutely horrid, and seem more like pixilated matchbox vehicles than a 300-horse power force to be reckoned with. Damage gamers receive while racing is well represented by its location on the car, but looks chunky and unrealistic. Landscapes flicker by as gamers race down the track; yet upon closer examination these majestic settings are nothing more that spiced up 2-D backdrops. The images reflected on the sides of cars are more suited for distracting the gamer than actually improving the realism. It is incredibly disappointing to see FM released on one of the most powerful systems, only to have its graphical potential squandered with sluggish visuals. Multiplayer in FM is fresh and a nice twist from the sometimes-tedious single player modes. Friends can go head to head on a single Xbox, or link up to eight consoles for a LAN party. Where FM’s multiplayer shines though is in its online capabilities. Using Xbox Live, players can race against each other from across the globe in standard grand prix or single race matches. The more interesting aspect, however, is being able to continue one’s Career mode online. Instead of racing against the same old boring A.I., gamers can plug into Xbox Live and race against intelligent human beings in an effort to further their racing career. Being able to take a career online is an invigorating breath of fresh air into the tired racing genre. FM boasts an innovative new game play option involving the use of a Drivatar. A Drivatar is a computer that can be personally trained in order to demonstrate one’s driving skills. After the training is complete, the Drivatar can be used in Career mode to alleviate the stress of all the repetitive races. The Drivatar will perform based on the results from its training. As gamer’s skill increases, they can go back and retrain their Drivatar to have it perform even better. The ability to train and utilize a Drivatar is a huge relief to the entirely redundant single player modes. Although FM fails to reach perfection, it is still a solid, thoroughly entertaining game. With disappointing visuals being the only real downfall, there is no reason why even moderate racing enthusiasts shouldn’t pick up this title. With its variety of addictive game play options, and killer on-line playability, Forza Motorsport is able to surpass its rivals in the race to be dubbed king of the genre. by Danielle Baudhuin by Alex Gelhar Digital Prints While You Wait! .All your digital and.35mm film needs . Prints from Passport Photos Single use cam(920) 233-2424 436 N. Main Street Oshkosh, WI 54901 10 MINUTES OR LESS For a confidential and FREE Ride home Safe Rides CALL 236-2646 Available to teens in Oshkosh Friday & Saturday nights from 10 p.m to 2 a.m. Sponsored by: MERCY MEDICAL CENTER The venturing Divsion of the Boy Scouts of America The Oshkosh West 10 Entertainment www.the-index.org M a y 2 7 , 2 0 0 5 Volume 101, Issue 8 INDEX Dazzling effects breathe life into climactic Star Wars finale Fanboys of the Star Wars empire revel as the third and final installment of George Lucas’ opus comes to a close. Blasting through hyperspace faster than a speeding Wookie, Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith completes a visionary journey decades in the making. Episode III chronicles Anakin Skywalker’s (Hayden Christensen, Life as a House) inevitable turn to the Dark Side of the Force. As the Clone War rages on, and approaches resolution, corruption of the Senate and Chancellor Palpatine becomes evident. The impending birth of Luke and Leia shines on the horizon, while new enemies rise to power and enact their sinister plots. Character development demanded a pivotal role in EIII, which sadly pulled screentime away from action sequences. This film follows the romance of Anakin and Padme as they try to keep their marriage a secret. While the romance may appeal to more sensitive audiences, hard line fans will get tired of their sentimental banter quickly. On a more positive, confrontational note, there was a great deal of Jedi council members being showcased in war, rather than just lounging indolently in the Jedi Temple. Moviegoers again shall jump for joy at another glorious lightsaber duel featuring master Yoda. As he leaps and bounds, one can only chuckle, but not too loudly, as cult followers will lash out violently. Special effects are at an all-time high in EIII. Time in outer space is minimal, yet gorgeous. The opening battle is probably 90% animated; attention to detail is unbelievable. Being able to see the characters’ faces through the glare of their cockpits adds a more realistic flair that captivates the audience. The true beauty of the animated mayhem, however, comes courtesy of the plethora of lightsaber battles and Force powers. Obi-Wan Kenobi’s (Ewen McGregor, Moulin Rouge) bout with the seemingly emphysema stricken General Grievous takes place in several locales over the course of about 15 minutes, never relenting for a moment, showcasing the general’s four sabers as they turn the steel floors into molten goo. The most comical use of the Force occurs when Yoda spins an entire portion of the senate’s pulpit and then launches the spinning wheel of death at a cackling Sith Lord. Padme (Natalie Portman, Closer) was a bit overly dramatic in this film, and surprisingly enough, didn’t have a very large part. Her character boiled down to a hormonally imbalanced, expectant mother, who cried elephant tears in nearly every scene. Chemistry between Portman and Christensen was lacking. They seemed too distant to be a married couple, let alone to parent children. Their awkward kissing scenes were useless in the grand scheme of the plot. In retrospect, EIII shines in comparison to the previous two installments. Granted, this is the final Star Wars ever, so Lucas’ crew pulled out all the stops. EIII tightly intertwines several characters’ paths to make them conform with the outcome of the original trilogy. Viewers will find themselves making connections to the older films, realizing where their favorite that won’t appeal to all generations of viewers. EIII is most definitely not a family friendly film. The numerous depictions of death and mere appearances of characters such as Darth Sidious are spine tingling. Even though EIII is an extremely well rounded film, it has its fair share of faults. First and foremost is that it is a fairly slow flick. Action packed scenes will energize an audience, but then transition into drawn out dialogues complete with the tranquility of a luxury apartment, dropping adrenaline levels to all-time lows. Not only is this film inappropriate for younger viewers, but for non-veterans of the series as well. It is a hassle to follow the confusing plots at times due to obscure characters being randomly dropped in. Fortunately, character confusion isn’t enough to detract from the overall experience. Bringing in more than $50 million on its opening night alone, EIII is sure to be the film that will steal all pre-summer movie sales. Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith lives up to the superfluous hype surrounding it, retiring the lightsaber in grand style. ‘Watch it you haven’t, play it you will’... Sith disapjump or move a downed X-wing in their path. Other situations are more subtle and on the fly, like picking up a pesky foe with the Force and tossing him over the most convenient ledge. When high-energy photon beams aren’t permeating the air, the storyline isn’t anything to look down upon; the problem lies in the fact that the game was released before the movie. No dedicated Star Wars fan wants to spoil the experience of seeing the movie by finishing this game. It’s like the development team for Revenge of the Sith is full of those of attack moves. Pressing other attack buttons will inadvertently send the Jedi into a beautifully choreographed series of dance moves in which the gamer loses all control. Beyond the emphasis on the Jedi learning how to dance, there is the inept camera view created by some numbskull who wishes the world was a tiny sphere. Beyond this sphere is a blank void of nothingness, yet laser bolts still come sizzling in to kill Jedi masters. Most of the danger in this game is poised just out of reach and can’t be seen until after it is too late to defend oneself. As a result, gamers will progress through the game while holding the block button down for a very, very long time. In the event that the gamer does find the elusive shooter, a battle will ensue in which the safest course of action is to stand behind a table. Even savvy opponents like other Jedi will be baffled by such objects. These impassable barriers confuse the computer AI, and provide a safe haven for Anakin or Kenobi. If a table cannot be located, make use of any other gamers into the Star Wars universe with jaw dropping graphics. Revenge of the Sith has a fully interactive environment that blurs the line between game and reality. Anakin can use the Force to hurl nearby objects at enemies, and Obi-Wan can get through those recurrent locked doors by plunging his lightsaber into the heart of the metal slab. There are even moments when the two Jedi must combine their Force powers to drastically alter their environment, such as holding blast doors open or moving the wreckage of a star-fighter. Combining the power of midichlorians intensifies within the two player mode. There is the option for cooperative gameplay, and even a versus mode in which two gamers duel it out in a Jedi melee to find the stronger warrior. While these lightsaber battles are loads of high quality entertainment, the real savior of Revenge of the Sith lies in the cooperative mode. With a few modifications from the one player mode, the game is made to suit a two Jedi massacre of Sith lords. Gamers work together in a mind-numbing procession of lightsaber slashes to destroy the infinite number of enemies that keep popping up beyond that ever so restrictive vantage point. It’s no surprise that the meathead who created that incompetent camera view never thought to fix the excess of other defects in the game. The low computer AI and almost non-existent control over the Jedi characters outweighs the spectacular lightsaber duels and formidible “Force powers.” A problem accompanies every success the developers had in Revenge of the Sith. The setbacks in the game make it a clear path to the dark side. Anger leads to hate, and hate leads to suffering. characters come from. For instance, Chewbacca and his army of wookies are actually friends of Yoda, and are a major target of the droid armies in the Clone War. These simple tidbits of information make the cinematic experience much more complete. By far, EIII is the darkest, and most eerie of the six installments. There is a gross sense of satisfaction that comes from seeing the “bad guy” winning for a change. This change of pace gives the film a tone by Justin Voss A long time ago, in a galaxy two weeks before the movie release, there was Star Wars Episode 3: Revenge of the Sith. For some strange reason, Skywalker Ranch never noticed this quirky blunder, along with a few other out of this world faults. This new addition to the PS2 is a lightsaber intense RPG (role playing game) that would have been an incredible evolution for the Star Wars saga had the developers paid a little more attention to the details. Instead, gamers are left with a game that is incredible for the first 20 minutes, because small annoyances begin to create a disturbance in the Force. It doesn’t take a Jedi Knight to figure out that Revenge of the Sith is based on the third episode of the Star Wars saga. Concentrating on Anakin Skywalker’s turn to the Dark Side, the game follows Obi-Wan Kenobi and his apprentice on their epic journey to save the Republic in the Clone Wars. Players control one of the two characters in each level, and as the game progresses it becomes painfully apparent that Anakin is diverging from the “good” side of the Force at an alarming rate. At the end of each level, experience is earned and gamers can allocate the points to increase a character’s ferocity in combat, including increasing a character’s ability to control the Force. With the main roles filled by Jedi, it can be reasonably inferred that much of the action will entail some use of a lightsaber or manipulation of the Force. One of the most admirable features in the game is the extensive use of the Force. In contrast to the multitude of Star Wars games that just let gamers push a few droids around, Revenge of the Sith contains uncountable ways to show a gamer’s mastery of the Force. Force powers blend in smoothly with the context of the game. Some “Force situations” are obvious, such as when Anakin or Obi-Wan need to pull off a Hollywood style Force The Oshkosh West annoying people who read the last page of a book before actually reading the rest of it. The excuse given from those at Skywalker Ranch was that the game is heavily focused on scenes cut from the movie; but whether they follow the movie storyline verbatim or not, the gamer still gets the gist of what happens. Other major defects arise in combat as characters try to combine strands of attacks and blocks to fend off the onslaught of droids. Instead of giving the gamer increased control of the Jedi attacks, a few button presses sends the Jedi into a four second combo move that renders him defenseless. Pushing the same attack button over and over again is far more effective than any combination permanent object in the game (large crates, downed ships, computer consoles). These powerful objects will outwit and outplay even the smartest foes. On a more positive note, the battles waged take place in incredible environments. The scenery effectively puts by Brandon Walker INDEX M a y 2 7 , 2 0 0 5 V o l u m e 1 0 1, Issue 8 www.the-index.org Entertainment 11 Basements empty as ACEN 2005 opens doors of sanctuary Anime Central (ACEN) 2005 A significant portion of the con takes festivities filled the Hyatt convention place outside of the live and animated center in Chicago with thousands of anime programming and rests on the shoulders of (Japanese Animation) fans waiting for their those in attendance. Cosplay, dressing up chance to oogle their favorite Japanese like a character from an anime or video game, talent. From artists, and manga (comics) is immensely popular. According to Busha, to J-pop and import originality is key shopping galore, to making a great ACEN ’05 was cosplay outfit. full of truly unique “I really experiences. l i k e d Te a m Standing Rocket from in line to simply Pokemon. The get into the door Pikachu they of ACEN was a carried became feat that the eager an original part of attendees endured their costumes, with grace. Without with a piece of pre-registering for duct tape over its the ‘con,’ a three photo courtesy of Justin Voss mouth and rope to six hour line Senior Justin Voss poses with J-Pop starlet Kumiko Kato during around its body. awaited those with her brief autograph session. People put a ton enough patience of time, effort, to obtain their passes for the weekend, as and money into making their costumes senior Analicia Busha can attest. the best.” “It may have been a long time to wait, Yankowski was inspired enough but it was worth it,” she commented. “After by the cosplayers to steal some photo the three and a half hour line to get our opportunities, especially with her passes, standing for an hour or so for an favorite character Shuichi Shindo from autograph became second nature.” Gravitation. ACEN for the non-Otaku (Fan of “Shuichi! Not only was his costume Japanese culture) is a bit of a culture great but he was a great person as well. I shock, but for aficionados the environment even got a photo with him.” is a second home. Tonie Yankowski was Dealer’s Hall is a great place for fans impressed with how accepting guests were to get their hands on merchandise straight at the con. from Japan. While the vendors took it upon “I think it was an themselves amazing experience. to inflate You were so easily the prices to accepted by the people astronomical and not labeled. levels, the People didn’t care selection of what you said or what goods was you wore; you could phenomenal. just be yourself.” “There Busha concurs was tons of that ACEN is a awesome comfortable place a n i m e to be accepted by goodness that a massive group of to buy there! I photo by Justin Voss usually spend people with similar Analicia Busha, Tonie Yankowski, and Kelly Potratz wait interests. a great portion “Everybody was patiently in line for The Pillows autograph session. of my time in really supportive, and it was interesting just dealers hall. Besides shopping, you get to to be able to talk to people who have an see all the cosplayers’ outfits,” said Busha. interest in what I like, instead of walking “The goods available are impossible to get around the school and having people not around Oshkosh, or even the United states understand what I’m talking about.” in general.” Yankowski laughed about the sheer energy and persistence of the dealers. “Dealers hall was crazy! The yaoi (homoerotic anime) stand was out of control! ‘You’re not at church so come to the alter of yaoi!’ That dealer was insane.” Adding to Dealer’s Hall was Artist Alley where aspiring artists from all over come to show off their work for all to see. Busha appreciated the recognition that the artist received. “There were a ton of great artists there. People tour the country to come to these conventions to show their artwork. They have a lot of passion and drive to get their artwork to people who understand what they are going for.” ACEN played host to a plethora of live talent. Their headline band for this year was Japan’s very own J-Pop trio The Pillows, who played nearly two hour long sets for fans. Busha was elated with the performance. “It was the music, it was the ‘Ganbatte’ (Try your best) spirit that they put into the show. I came into it with pretty high hopes that they would have a great concert based off of the CD I listened to, but I think that they were 100 times better in concert.” While she had not heard much of The Pillows prior to ACEN, Yankowski enjoyed the event as well. “I thought the intensity level of the people and The Pillows was just amazing. It was really easy for everyone to get into the concert, even if they had never heard The Pillows before.” J-Pop star Kumiko Kato also sang several short concerts and signed autographs as she toured the US to promote her album which is due out in August of this year. “She may have some problems coming over to the US. People here won’t be accepting of her style because it is not western enough for the masses,” Busha stated. “Yet she was adorable, all the girls at the concert were clapping, but all the guys just stared at her while she danced provocatively.” Aside from mainstream Japanese pop, there was also a showing of more traditional media. Sally Suzuki and Yusuke Wakamisho performed four time-honored dances for a curious crowd. Busha was fascinated with the artistic abilities of the duo, especially Mr. Wakamisho. “The costumes were really unique. It was interesting how they used different colors to represent their scenery. While Wakamisho is new to the dancing world, he was very skilled and original, combining a modern style of dance with the classic style” T o culminate the convention, ACEN hosts “Masquerade,” where brave souls have the chance to show off their costumes, or perform skits to be judged by a panel. Busha was impressed with the homage to Namco’s Katamari Damacy. “My favorite skit was the Katamari Damacy skit with the Super Smash Brothers theme. The funniest part was when the King of all Cosmos flung a rainbow out of his mouth to exit the stage, it was perfect.” Yankowski laughed as she recalled a creative tribute to the convention itself. “The funniest skit was the sort of ‘Ode to ACEN’ where the guy sang ‘Sometimes I make-out with guys because it turns the Yaoi girls on.’ That was so hilarious.” Although ACEN 2005 has come and gone, fans of anime will be back again next year for another weekend filled with enough Pocky (wafer candy) to feed a small country. “This is my third year going to ACEN,” said Busha, “I can’t wait to go back, hopefully I’ll get to cosplay in years to come.” by Justin Voss Get the Door. It’s Domino’s! Limited delivery area. To ensure safety drivers carry less than $20. DEE PHOTO JUNE SPECIAL: Book your Senior portraits by June 15th and receive 16 extra wallets with your selected package (appontments must be in June, July or August) Join Student Council! Get involved with school and help out with events like the City-Wide Lip Sync, MORP and Blood Drives! Meetings Tuesdays at Lunch in the Little Theater (room C-29) CALL NOW FOR YOUR SENIOR PORTRAITS!! 520 15th St (920) 233-4042 Good luck to all of our 2005 Grads! We thank you for all of your hard work over the past couple of years. The school will miss you greatly! The Oshkosh West 12 Entertainment INDEX www.the-index.org M a y 2 7 , 2 0 0 5 V o l u m e 1 0 1, Issue 8 Staff trades business for pleasure as retirement beckons As seven West teachers approach the end of their high school careers, they prepare for new beginnings and reflect on memories of educating. Retiring staff members include: business teacher Patricia Lowther, business teacher Lois McGlynn, math department head Miriam McCann, English teacher Russell Hoxtell, Learning Lab specialist Jeanne Newport, math teacher Bill Christman, and media center department head Jim Zitzelsberger. Business instructor Patricia Lowther is pulling the plug on a long and successful teaching career. After three and a half decades of education and dedication, Lowther is moving on to a simpler life. “I’ve been teaching for 35 years,” she said,” I started in September of 1970 when it was one high school.” Retirement will afford Lowther more time with her loved ones. “I’ve reached a point in my life where I want to have time to spend time with my family and pursue other interest,” she said. “I’ve never been able to get organized for Christmas and never able to do normal things. I would like time to enjoy the evenings. I’ve always had to check papers. I want to spend time savoring each day and enjoying life.” Although Lowther is eagerly anticipating her new lifestyle, there will be a sense of absence. “I’m going to miss the great staff and students at West and working with students and seeing their acquiring of skills in computers,” she said. “Teaching computers and technology has been a life long learning experience because the class had to be updated annually to keep up with the trends in technology, so I’ve always had to go back to school.” During her productive stay at West, Lowther has witnessed a long line of graduates flourish. “Seeing former students being successful in the area of computers and technology has been rewarding,” she said. “I also have the co-op program. Knowing those students use their training to enable them to pursue a career in computers and technology is rewarding. It’s nice seeing as my mom was a teacher and my grandma was a teacher,” she said. “I grew up with a teaching career. I enjoyed seeing how much my mother was able to teach After nearly three decades in education, Lois McGlynn is holding a “going out of business” sale as she sets out on the sea of retirement. “I’ve been teaching for about 25 years; 18 of them at West,” she said. “I always liked school. I played teacher when I was little and I like business classes.” Like other retirees, McGylnn will feel the loss of her peers and pupils, but not the accompanying stress. “I’ll miss the people I work with and the students,” she said. “I won’t miss the homework.” Former students often return and share success stories of post-high school careers with McGlynn. “I’ve had a lot of good students,” she said. “Some have come back and told me they have used what I taught them. I also have memories of teachers that I’ve worked with and how much they care about their students.” While still in her prime, McGylnn plans to take full advantage of her life of leisure. “I want to retire when I’m healthy and young enough to still enjoy things that are out there,” she said. Retirement plans include many of McGlynn’s favorite past times. “My plans are to enjoy my hobbies like quilting, gardening and birds,” she said. “I enjoy the outdoors and getting up and walking in the fall- it’s my favorite time of year. I’d like to clean my house, cupboards and eventually get a part time subbing job. I’m looking forward to Math mastermind and department head Miriam McCann is closing the book on her teaching career and opening another towards her new life of retirement. “I’m just going to travel and visit my son in Arizona when it’s cold here,” said McCann. “I’d also like to go to Florida with my husband when he goes there Lois McGlynn Patricia Lowther on business. I’d really like to go back to Alaska to learn about earthquakes and tsunamis. We went there two summers ago to study glaciers and ecology.” McCann has been a key installment at West. She has been successfully teaching nearly every branch of math for many years. “I taught 27 years at West,” she said. “I spent the first two years subbing while I was getting recertified.” McCann has seen many students pass from her class to graduation. She enjoys her line of work and the students she educates. “Working with teenagers keeps you young,” she said. “When you’re around the same age group year after year you don’t realize that you’re getting any older. While McCann is taking a muchdeserved retirement, she has no plans of permenantly leaving the education field behind. “I’d also like to continue learning,” she said. “I might come back to do some subbing if they need me here, so you might see me around next year.” McCann often reflects upon the fond memories she experienced in her teaching career. “I will miss working with the students and other staff,” she said. “West is a really great school to work in. I’ll remember this year’s Pi Day. I just have lots of little really good memories. One of the most memorable things is how students in the past have spent time trying to figure out how many math related shirts I own. I don’t even know anymore.” James Zitzelsberger has been a library/ media specialist and English teacher at Oshkosh West since 1976. He is a Vietnam veteran with eclectic interests, whose educational background includes a bachelor of science degree in secondary education, a master of arts degree in library science, and post-graduate work in administration, technology, and English. He has taught summer school English since 1983. In the past, Zitzelsberger has been the head coach for Oshkosh West swimming, diving, and track; a professional radio personality; active in numerous Wisconsin educational organizations; taught educational technology at UW-Oshkosh; and served as commodore for the South Side Ice Yacht Club. His current interests include farming, iceboating, and antique tractors. James Zitzelsberger has two grown sons and one over-grown chow chow/husky/shepherd named Moki. Zitzelsberger plans to retire at the end of the 2005 school year. Courtesy of Oshkosh West website Learning Lab specialist Jeanne Newport is finally concluding her career after teaching students for over thirty years. “I’ve been teaching for 33 years; 32 of them in the district, and one in Guam,” said Newport. “I had been subbing for about six months when my husband and I got married and moved to Guam. While there, I taught fifth graders.” Newport explained how she would like to end her career on a high note. “I’d like to go out while I’m still good,” she said. “It’s like a Packer player; they want to go out while they’re still catching touchdowns.” Her devotion for her students will always remain with her during her retirement. “I’m really going to miss the kids because they’re just fantastic,” said Newport. “And the staff and administration of course. It’s all a team effort.” Post-career plans for Newport include her favorite past times and a larger emphasis on family. “After my retirement, I plan to be there for my family more,” she said. “I have three children and two grandchildren, and I’d love to be around them more. I also enjoy quilting and doing yoga. I plan to travel as well.” Newport has always had education as a primary focus in her life. “It has always been my dream to teach; there was no other option,” she said. “It was just something that I wanted to do.” Jeanne Newport James Zitzelsberger Miriam McCann by Index Staff 30 Days For Just $30! Valid through July buy 20 sessions, get 5 free buy 15 sessions, get 3 free buy 10 sessions, get 1 free Safari Sun Tanning Salon Monday thru Thursday 10-10, Friday 10-8 Saturday 10-6, Sunday 10-3 364 South Koeller Road, Oshkosh (behind Cinema 10, next to Sears) Bring Coupon & ID 16 to tan The Oshkosh West INDEX M a y 2 7 , 2 0 0 5 V o l u m e 1 0 1, Issue 8 www.the-index.org Features 13 13 West freshman, Robin Karlin and senior Matt Gonzales, channeled their inspiration and passions into composing music for an orchestra. West Orchestra Director Geri Grine is both proud and elated that she can share her passion with students such as these. “I am really amazed at their talent; I feel privileged to be able to experience all of this with them,” she said. “Their ability and creative process is amazing. I asked Robin where she had the music to her piece, and she pointed to her head and said, ‘up here’. I really admire the talented young minds that we have. It makes me so excited for the future.” Karlin’s piece, which is comprised of two movements, is written for the entire orchestra. “The first movement features flute, clarinet, and trumpet, but as a contrast, the second movement has a viola and cello solo; and in both, there are glockenspiel solos,” she said. While Karlin’s piece is written for the entire orchestra, Gonzales’ work is a string quartet. Both selections were performed at the spring orchestra concert on May 24. The impulse to begin composing music was completely unexpected for Gonzales. “I started writing music as a freshman, and I have written duets and small chamber pieces. After that, I started writing for my string quartet,” he said. “To this day, I don’t know what moved me to start writing music.” Karlin also started composing at a young age. She began through her piano teacher’s instruction. “My piano teacher made me compose a piece each year and, eventually, I got good at it. Matt Gonzales also pressured me into composing for orchestra,” she said. Karlin gained her influence through the music she listens to. She uses melodies from other songs and builds off them, creating her own style. While improvising on the piano, new melodies and rhythms are formed. “The melodies are usually influenced by something I had just listened to. For example, the first movement sounds piratelike because I had just watched Pirates of the Caribbean,” she said. “The melody is usually just playing in my head and the background notes and rhythms get stuck.” Instead of listening to other works, Gonzales takes a slightly different approach when composing his pieces. “I really have no clue where the melodies come from, but it is the rhythms that drive my pieces anyway,” he said. “I build rhythms from many different places, including Latin and Hispanic music, Eastern European folk songs, and even dance/techno music.” Student composers form soundtrack for future generations Fred Carmichael’s mystery/comedy relating to a 1940’s detective, silent movies Done to Death has not received much and James Bond. I think that it appealed acclaim in the dramatic world; however, to everyone.” Along with an intriguing mystery plot, the recent performance by West students Done to Death on April 29-May 1 incorporated was a great success. numerous young Director Lisa actors. Hutchinson chose this “I really play because of the enjoyed spending unique plot as well time with the as amusing appeal of cast,” said Carmichael’s script. freshman Danielle “I first picked a Baudhuin. “The smaller play, because upper classmen I had heard that not were very photo by Tricia Brauer many students were Authors from Done to Death ponder the apparent cooperative and trying out,” she said. “After I was informed murder of Jane the maid. The murder mystery/comedy w e l c o m i n g t o us.” Though the t h a t m a n y n e w production ran April 29-May 1. cast was inexpefreshmen were interested, I started to rienced, they were capable, according to look for something larger. I really like this play because I love parody humor. It is also Hutchinson. “I was very impressed with the appealing because it is a play within a play, talent of underclassmen,” she said. “Two with numerous flashbacks.” Senior Rayen Singletary was initially sophomores had lead roles, and even apprehensive about the audience’s reaction some freshmen received parts...I love collaborating with the students. That’s to the play’s humor. “It was a lot of fun,” she said. “When what is so much fun; being able to watch we first started, we thought that no one them develop as characters.” Sophomore Brad Spanbauer enjoys would understand the jokes, but on stage adapting a new persona to become a during the performances they turned out character. to be really funny.” “I love to be creative and interpret The mystery/comedy script also people,” he said. “It’s very fun to create differed greatly from previous plays, personalities and voices.” according to junior Dana Sekeres. Singletary feels that drama provides “This play was a step outside of the an escape from everyday life. box,” she said. “Acting is something I’ve always Hutchinson was impressed with the enjoyed doing because it’s a way to get final performances. “This play incorporated parodies away from reality,” she said. “I love taking Done to Death opens to laughs... all laughs on other roles, and I’ve learned that in a play you need to be open minded about both the character and the play.” Team camaraderie is also a significant factor. “One of the best parts is having people who just want to be there and have fun,” Hutchinson said. “If the show doesn’t work out, we still want to say that we were friends and enjoyed it.” Senior Analicia Busha was very thankful for the opportunity to act as student director. “I chose to direct because I was thinking about studying as a theater major, and this has really helped me see how things are put together to make the show,” she said. “It was truly excellent to start out as I did, and it was great to receive input from people.” This year ’s play required much diligence and commitment from all participants, however Spanbauer undertook a large challenge. “I originally had the part of a butler, however the actor playing the part of one of the leads had to quit,” he said. “I was asked by Mrs. Hutchinson if I would take over the part, so I had three weeks to learn about 500 lines.” Busha reflects with a sense of nostalgia on the end of the play. “Of all the lessons I’ve learned, I think the most important is for students to put themselves out in the light,” she said. “If you sit out, you’ll miss out on a lot. The play was just great; and I really hope that more people choose to get involved in the future.” Student “stowes” away on legendary game show “Remember to have your pets spayed or neutered.” One of West’s very own received a rare chance to hear these timeless words from the legendary Bob Barker. While at the DECA national competition, senior Connor Stowe and DECA advisor Nicole Peterson were able to attend the taping of The Price is Right. Stowe’s charisma gave him the upper hand, giving him a part as a contestant on the show. “It was a blast,” he said. “I think everyone has grown up with the The Price is Right. This was a once in a life time experience being on the show.” The entire day was devoted to awaiting entrance into the studio, according to Stowe. “It was a really long process,” he said. “First you have to get tickets either online or through mail. We were told to arrive before six in the morning. We were there around 5:15 and we were only 98th and 99th in line and the doors didn’t open until after 2. There were three different steps to presecreen someone: an order of arrival number, a priority number and then when you get in line they do a 20 second interview.” According to Peterson, there is no lucky charm that will get contestants called down into contestant’s row, despite what many may think. “They tell you to be yourself,” she said. “It doesn’t help to wear a shirt that says ‘I love Bob’ or be in a large group. Your personality is what gets you in.” Stowe was one of the first four people called to contestant row at the beginning of the show. However, Stowe did not reach the spotlight until the final round. “When I got called I was really excited,” he said. “Bidding was fun, it wasn’t until I lost five in a row that I got nervous, but then I won, so I guess it was good that I got nervous.” Stowe was finally able to reach the stage, after heavy ribbing from Barker about still being in contestant’s row. Barker warned him that not getting on stage would make his return back to Oshkosh difficult for his his self-esteem. “He was very nice,” he said. “He made fun of me and that was really cool. I think Bob realized I was being really nice to people. I was being really friendly and made eye contact. He said my name like nine times while he was making fun of me.” Stowe’s engaging personality and persistent betting paid off. “I won a $1300 stainless steel grill, a 3-in-1 bumper pool table and a Flexsteel couch,” he said. “I have to pay 7% taxes and they are sending me all of the prizes through the mail.” During his time in contestant’s row Stowe experienced the wrath of hardcore game show competition. “Her name was Trisha and twice she bid $1 over me,” he said. “I talked to her about it. You can only hear the bid next to you, so she just bid $1 over because then she knew she was close to everyone. I was upset, but I probably would have done the same thing.” Despite Peterson not receiving the same Hollywood fame as Stowe, she was still able to enjoy the experience. by Jessica Pernsteiner by Mike Rounds Tony’s Auto & Collision Center West Frontage Road, corner of Washburn and 20th “There was never a doubt in my mind that if one of us would get on, it would be him,” she said. “I sat in the audience and cheered like a crazy woman. I tried to touch everyone that was getting on TV so that I could get on TV. I also tried to give prices but I sucked at that so I stopped.” Stowe’s outgoing personality was a perfect fit for a contestant. “It was so good,” he said. “I’m all about being in the spotlight. Being on national TV was amazing. It was cool that everyone around the nation in any place could see me. I’ve been wanting to be on the show since I was a little kid.” Although Stowe did not make it to the showcase showdown, he was still thrilled to have been able to spin the show’s famed wheel. “The wheel was really heavy,” he said. “It was a really awkward thing to spin since it had like 20 sides.” Upon returning to Oshkosh, Stowe and Peterson decided to keep Stowe’s national debut a secret until the airing of the show. “It added a lot more excitement,” he said. “I only told my family and was kind of scared that they might tell someone. I am kind of shocked that we were able to keep it secret from everyone else,” he said. According to Stowe, it takes both luck and skill to succeed on the show. “You don’t realize how important bidding is,” he said. “I’m horrible at it. If my game wouldn’t have been so easy I wouldn’t have won anything.” 24 - hour towing FREE Drive-thru estimates 920-426-3700 by Cathie LaCroix The Oshkosh West 14 Features www.the-index.org INDEX M a y 2 7 , 2 0 0 5 V o l u m e 1 0 1, Issue 8 Fifth annual Lip Sync a smashing success Bazata bemoans Cyndi Lauper, OutKast, Toby Keith, as well as West English teacher Bill Steinert were some of the many voices that echoed throughout Alberta Kimball Auditorium on Wednesda, May 4 as West and North special education students performed their fifth annual Lip Sync competition. The event was a culmination of constant planning, early practices beginning in March and diligent efforts from staff, students and the four teachers who coordinate the program. “Five years ago our students watched the other Lip Sync at home on channel 10, and the teachers at North and West decided it would be a fun idea,” said Cognitive Disabilities/Moderate Severe (CD/MS) Instructor Iris Jacobson. “We had 11 students in our program that participated in the Lip Sync this year. We try to get every one of them involved.” West teacher Connie Rosenbaum chose to bring her German 1 class to attend and commends the performance. “It was an excellent presentation,” she said. “I know it took a lot of hard work done by both the students and staff to have the event be a success.” The Lip Sync this year had a surprising turnout, with students from the Cognitive Disabilities/Severe (CD/S) and CD/MS programs from Neenah High School, as well as students from similar programs in Kaukauna in attendance. “We had almost a full house,” Jacobson said. “University students came, with one professor as a judge. CD/S students from the local elementary and middle schools came, which is great because it gives them something to look forward to.” Paraprofessional Tammy Olds was impressed with the crowd not only from the community, but West as well. “I was surprised at the number of people we had this year,” she said. Jacobson believes that the Lip Sync is a significant part of her students’ high school careers. “We look forward to it every year,” she said. “It really is the highlight of their year.” The Lip Sync has continued to be important throughout this year as well. “When I first came here as a substitute in September, they were already talking about the Lip Sync then,” said paraprofessional Eileen Poeschl. “Now at the end of the year, they’re still talking about it.” Paraprofessional Peggy Nichols also students to see the diversity at Oshkosh West.” supports student involvement. Kaleigh Olds agrees that participation “They really have fun, and when they’re done they want to do more,” she in this competition helps increase the said. “They get the chance to express individual self esteem of the special themselves and do something besides education students. “It’s great that [everyone sees] that academics.” Student participants took pleasure in these kids are just as capable of doing the same things that other kids can.” the chance to perform. The performance impressed “I liked dancing with the girls. It was lots of fun,” said junior Kale Reichenberger, Steinert. “I thought it was incredible,” he said. a four year performer in the Lip Sync. “I “The Lip like it when Sync gives people clap.” these students Junior goals and S c o t t recognition. Rosenberg There are so participated many levels for his third of benefits.” consecutive Students year and also not only enjoyed the receive the experience. opportunity “It was to shine on cool, because stage, but are I like music,” he said. “I got photo by Rachel Hanusa also able to to dance and Senior Jaci Paulick and freshman Kaleigh Olds dance in the background relate to other to junior Kale Reichenberger’s rendition of “The Wanderer” during the students at sing.” Jacobson special education Lip Sync held on Wednesday May 4. This was the West. “ I finds that her fifth year the students collaborated for the performance. believe this students are very interetested in various genres of increases overall acceptance between regular and special education students,” music, especially current hits. “They like popular music like other said CD/MS instructor Stephanie Polak. Junior Kayla Schubert concurs with students do,” she said. Not only does the competition benefit Polak. “I think it was a great experience, those who perform, but also the numerous other individuals involved, according to not only for the performers, but also the freshman and first year Lip Sync member audience,” she said. “Usually there are events like this that we’re not able to go to. Kaleigh Olds. “I like working with the kids, and Hopefully these kids can see that we care I hope to do it again,” she said. “I think about them too.” There are many benefits of the Lip that it’s great because they get to enjoy Sync, according to Jacobson. themselves and have fun.” “The students work on taking Senior Amanda Shefchik was thrilled to perform with her class for the first directions, as well as learn to follow routines, be precise and do things within time. “I love singing and dancing in front of a time limit,” she said. “It also builds self esteem and confidence. The rest of people,” she said. Tammy Olds believes that the event is the school gets to see these students in a different light, and in an activity similar to important for all participants. “It shows the other students what what they are involved in.” they’re capable of,” she said. Rosenbaum enjoyed the event because it allows for a greater appreciation of others. by Jessica Pernsteiner “This was the first time I saw it,” she said. “I think it’s a nice opportunity for was both, regardless, I cannot relate to her, that September girl. I also remember writing about bad days, good days and how I had more than my fair share of homesickness. I had always expected missing home to be a phase. I thought it might go away, but it never did. It came and went as it pleased. Thus I found that moods varied more often than I would like to admit. A year abroad may be advertised as a chance to learn a foreign language and way of life. Of course it is, but what it really is, is a chance to see yourself and your country from outside the box. From the moment the plane touched down in Frankfurt, I was thrown violently outside the box, outside the norm and far outside my comfort zone. It has taken a very long time to find my comfort zone again, but I found it and that’s what matters. I am still outside of the box and I am sure my definition of normal has changed, too. If a break sounds tempting, or if you just want to peek into another society, I strongly suggest a year abroad. Believe it or not, there is a whole world outside the United States. All it takes is a little curiosity and strength to make it happen. What are you waiting for? prolonged stay sans Taco Bell While all of you are gearing up for summer vacation, I am facing another two months of school. I can hardly complain, since we’ve enjoyed several trips around the UK and Europe. Still... Lately I find myself thinking of home. I miss my family, friends, and cats, as well as Oshkosh West, the staff, and students. A friend recently asked, “Is there anything you are really looking forward to?” Didn’t take much thought on my part; Taco Bell. Seems like ages ago that I took the long flight from Chicago to London. I was eager and excited, and yet, there was no denying my feelings of anxiety and uncertainty. My first few months as a teacher involved a sharp learning curve in nearly everything: spelling, punctuation, slang, grading, teaching, driving, etc. I felt like a student! Eventually, I got settled into the routine of teaching in England. Always ready to try something new, I recently accepted an invitation to join the teacher cricket team. Watching cricket on TV didn’t prepare me. Bowling (pitching) for the first team practice, I nearly knocked off the batter’s head! This “talent” resulted in being chosen as the bowler against the opposing team’s best batter. Guess you could call me their Secret Weapon! Now, I would like to announce that I am an expert in all things English. Unfortunately, I can’t. At least once a week the students laugh and giggle as I say, “OK guys, what did I say wrong this time?” They never tire of correcting my mistakes. I’m sure the Oshkosh West students will be much more understanding of any British slip-ups I make next year. While all of you are preparing for summer fun, try to remember that poor Mr. Bazata will be in school until the end of July. No, no. Don’t cry. I have just one humble request. Should you find yourself at Taco Bell, ask the clerk, “Is it possible to ship chalupas overseas?” by Mark Bazata Lerch reflects on evolution through travel There was an invitation to visit Venice and a desire to see Hamburg that I never actually got around to make happen. Instead, I was bound and determined to spend one of my last weeks where it all started, in Hambach. It’s a small village, coincidentally named for the castle sitting on a hill just over the ridge. It was then I decided that despite it all, this country wasn’t so bad. In fact, I might even grow to like it a little. That was an understatement. My fondness has evolved to something you may even call love. It is not a patriotic love though, and it never will be. It is a simpler love for its people, their culture and ideas, and simple way of life. That’s why somewhere in between March and April, I didn’t bother to count the days and the X’s on my calendar stopped appearing. It is no use at this point; I could use my fingers and toes if I wanted to. I look back on the first few articles I wrote in which I couldn’t quite understand why I got picked for this program in the first place. Who was that girl? Definitely not me, it couldn’t have been. I completely underestimated myself. I read a few lines here and there and it makes me want to crawl into a shell. I sound so childish! The crazy truth is, that girl doesn’t exist anymore. It was either “the Krauts” who beamed me up and revived my way of thinking and refreshed my sense of self, or it really was just me, adapting to my surroundings. Perhaps it The Oshkosh West Jesus is “The Real Thing” Radical (A major change from any type of worship you’ve attended) Exciting (Rockin’ music mixed with fun) Authentic (A message that youth can really relate to) Life-changing (Take the monthly challenge) A REAL Worship Experience for Youth! Sunday, June 12th “The Real Thing” Worship: 6:00PM Message: Beyond the Yearbook“How to make a name for yourself” Music with “The Real Thing Refreshments and Games: 7:00 - 8:30 First English Lutheran Church 1013 Minnesota Street, Oshkosh across from Jefferson Elementary School by Bethany Lerch ooks Bring your yearb and your friend s! INDEX M a y 2 7 , 2 0 0 5 V o l u m e 1 0 1, Issue 8 www.the-index.org Features 15 13 Body Worlds exhibit celebrates artistic story of human The adult human body is composed of 206 bones, as well as numerous muscles, tissues and cells, all of which were visible to Biology 2 students as they viewed Gunther von Hagens’ Body Worlds exhibit. Instructor Sara Dobish chose to take 42 students to the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago on May 14 to view this world-renowned display. “I think that this was a really great experience,” she said. “We do go to see cadavers, but Body Worlds seemed to display [the bodies] in an artistic manner.” Many students had been anticipating the trip because it provides intriguing insight for future careers. “I was really excited about it, because I have a strong interest in anatomy and physiology,” said senior Joel Utecht. “I’ve was looking forward to this all year long.” Senior Nicole Tritt also feels that the trip has provided beneficial background for college. “My major in college is biology,” she said. “Last year we got to see the magazine depicting this exhibit, but not the video that the classes this year saw.” Students were not only enthusiastic towards significance in the future, but also eager to make connections to their Biology 2 class. “This was one of the most interesting things I’ve seen,” said senior Allyson Stellings. “It actually pulled things together from what we were studying.” Senior Paul King also felt it was easy to relate the exhibit to science. “In biology, we study life and various aspects of the human body, such as the tissues and muscles,” he said. “It was very intriguing.” Body Worlds provides an interactive learning experience as opposed to classroom learning. “Something like this broadens horizons,” Utecht said. “You can look at all the books you want, but seeing this can help you really understand how things work.” Sales and Marketing teacher Nicole Peterson was intrigued by the exhibit as well. “I’m actually studying to get my personal training certification,” she said. “We had just been studying the different muscles, so it was really helpful to see them in person.” The ability to closely examine the plastinates was unexpected. “I was really impressed at how close we were able to get to them,” King said. “I thought they would be behind display cases; however, for the most part we were able to walk around each one.” Junior Emily Fisher was captivated by individual body parts. “I really liked seeing the organs with diseases compared to the healthy ones,” she said. “I think that was the most interesting part; but overall I enjoyed the entire exhibit.” Though many students were fascinated by Body Worlds, some were also affected by the reality that they were viewing. “The whole fetal unit was disturbing,” Stellings said. “I didn’t expect there to be a whole section that included children.” Dobish hopes that the trip inspired her students to discover more about what is inside of them. “Most people don’t have a real opportunity to see what’s inside our bodies unless they’re in a medical profession,” she said. “I hope this experience continues to spark the students’ interest in science and in the human body.” story by Jessica Pernsteiner An eclectic body of work... photo courtesty of Body Worlds 16 The Oshkosh West Features INDEX www.the-index.org M a y 2 7 , 2 0 0 5 Volume 101, Issue 8