Issue 6 - June 2012 by West Side Stories

WEST SIDE

STORIES June 2012

BURRITOS!!! p. 4-5

• Wauwatosa West High School • 11400 W Center Street, Wauwatosa WI • Volume 16, Issue 6

A New and Foreign Stage

The Trojan Players recieve national recognition from the American High School Theater Festival

Stephanie Eberle g Editor-in-Chief

Tosa West’s theater troupe, the Trojan Players, were nominated and accepted to perform at the 2013 American High School Theater Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland. The American High School Theater Festival takes place during the annual Fringe Festival in Edinburgh. Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival takes place during August and is the largest arts festival in the world. The festival contains performers from all over the world showcasing their variety of talents. From one man skits to full out musicals, the festival includes many different forms of theatrical works. It was created in 1947, when a group of performers decided to host a flash mob to display their productions when they were not invited to the national festival. The festival grew from a flash mob to a spectacle so large that many smaller festivals have formed beneath it. The American High School Theater Festival is just one example. Each year a couples hundred American high school theater troupes are nominated to participate in the festival. The schools must be nominated by a theater professor or another theater professional. Tosa West was nominated by three individuals for its work on Footloose. Once a school has been

nominated they receive notice and must reply with an application. The application includes topics such as past shows, program structure, and theater philosophy. Tim Catlett, the theater director at West, said, “Many schools send in videos, photos, or news stories about themselves, but not us. We got in on just the black and white.” The application was accepted based greatly upon the philosophy of the theater. Catlett’s theater philosophy is that he is not supposed to teach the students how to be theater professionals but to “give [them] an opportunity to learn how to live and work together as a community of artists.” This philosophy impressed the panel of theater professionals and professors who review the application. The high cost of the trip has prevented the Trojan Players from participating. Catlett held several meetings with the students and parents to explain the trip as well as the six to seven thousand dollar cost per student. The trip would be ten to twelve days long and the cost would consist of the materials and shipping of the set, meal expenses, boarding expenses, licensing and permitting, as well as other expenses. Catlett said, “Most of the cost for the trip comes from that it is a per-

Waj Ali g WEST SIDE STORIES NICK FRITAS AND VALERIE VOGEL enact a fight scene during dress rehearsal for Peter Pan.

formance trip.” The theater had to give their response by May 21st, and due to having commitment from only eleven of the fifteen needed participants they had to decline the offer. Susie Shively, a junior in the Trojan Players,

said, “I’m sad the Trojan Players don’t get the experience.” Although they do not get the experience of performing in Scotland, the Trojan Players still have the great honor of having been accepted. Catlett said, “What we

need to do right now is to recognize that we were recognized for the work we have done so far as well as the work we were starting to do. We need to focus now on who we are going to become.”

Addressing the Issues

American Public Policy students present research at the 2nd annual Issue Fair

Jennifer Flynn g Copy Editor

Everyone has heard plenty about the American Public Policy Special Emphasis (APPSE) class by now. However, as the competition ended and learning new material drew to a close, plenty of work was still being done by the APPSE students’ APP counterparts. This past Tuesday, May 22nd, was the date of the American Public Policy Issue Fair, a several hour event during which APP students gave a presentation to judges on a subject of their choice. Issues ranged from school start time policies to abortion to drunk driving. Students chose their topics earlier in the semester and then spent several months gathering information in order to make a tri-fold display board and write a paper. While there was no set length for the paper, it had to thoroughly cover the problems and possible solutions for the chosen subject. Most students created online surveys with various questions pertaining to their topics, and then invited others to take the surveys via email and Facebook. This allowed students to find out what their peers knew and how they felt about a given subject. “It was a lot of work,” said junior Gina Richter. Junior Vicky Young agreed that the project was a strenuous one. “It was difficult and

Stephanie Eberle g Editor-in-chief Megan Wendelberger presents her project before a judge.

a little confusing at times.” However, it was worth it in the end. “I learned a lot along the way,” said Richter. “I made it through eventually,” said Young. All this work culminated in the Issue Fair. Judges ranged from lawyers to parents to local law enforcement. Attorney Lindsey Draper, who was also

a judge at the We the People national competition, thought it was a night well-spent. “[The Issue Fair] is really interesting,” he said. Sharon Muehlfeld, a member of the school board, agreed. “I love seeing all the topics. It’s very encouraging.” The event gave members of the community the opportunity to see how much work students did and how much they learned—and maybe even learn a little bit themselves. There were two time slots for the issue fair, with the first group of students beginning at 5:00 p.m. and the second group beginning at 6:00. Each group had a total of five rounds, although individuals did not have to present during each round. As rounds finished and students left the building, the excitement was obvious. “It feels so good to be done,” said senior Sara Aiello with a sigh of relief. Despite all the work it entailed, many people felt the Issue Fair was a worthwhile experience. “It’s a good way for [us] to interact in the community,” said junior Kelsey Kennedy. Overall, the night was a success for students, observers, and judges alike. “I’m thrilled,” said Draper. “The chance to hear the thoughts that young people have put into these topics…very much enjoyable.”

Features WEST SIDE STORIES June, 2012

Closing the Gap

The evolution of the orthodontics staple Sabrina Black g Staff Writer

Ache. Metal. Pain. Rubber bands. Throb. Wires. Expense. Ouch! These words are what come to mind for many people when they hear the word “braces.” We are all acquainted with people who have or had braces; many of us even have or had braces ourselves. The common conception is that braces are painful, irksome, and all-around bad. But is that how those who have braces really feel about them? The consensus seems to be that while all of these descriptions may be true sometimes, braces are typically not as bad as they are made out to be. Freshman Aleksandra Zielonka explained, “Usually, I forget I’m wearing them. The braces just feel normal; it would feel weird not wearing them.” Another student confirmed, “They don’t really hurt that much once you get used to them, except when [you’ve had your] wires tightened. [Braces are] not so much of an inconvenience; I can eat most of the same foods as I could before I had them.”

Orthodontist Dr. Charles Hewett detailed some of the difficulties of braces: “Bacteria that normally exist in people’s mouths break down [the] sugar into an acid, and if you don’t brush your teeth really well, the acid can demineralize the enamel of the teeth and cause permanent white stains on the teeth called decalcification marks, and also it can cause the gum tissue to get really puffy [and have] really bad Gingivitis, too.” Another downside of braces is their cost. Dr. Hewett stated, “The typical cost for braces is around [$]6,000, I think…I would say [$]56,000.” However, he added that payment plans make the expense more affordable. The article “Braces Are Cool – What’s Up With That?” by WebDentistry claims that many braces-wearing children are even fond of their braces. They enjoy selecting colors for their rubber bands, and now that braces are more popular than they were decades ago, people who have braces do not stand out as much. The article also states

that today, approximately 20% of those with braces are adults. The advancements in orthodontics which decrease the visibility of braces appeal to adults, especially when they have observed successful braces procedures in their acquaintances.However, braces are not just a modern development. Braces-devoted website ArchWired’s article “A Brief History of Braces” explains that primitive bracelike devices have been discovered on bodies of Etruscans and Romans. Both Hippocrates and Aristotle considered ways to align teeth. At the beginning of the twentieth century, the article also states, it was common to form the braces’ bands from gold. The bands then encircled each tooth. Steel braces were not adopted until the midtwentieth century. The article explains that in the mid1970s, today’s bonded bracket attached with adhesive was invented. In this time, self-ligating brackets were also invented. These brackets hold

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wires in with a special clasp built into each bracket. Since then, further progressions in the world of braces have been made; now, there are lingual braces, which are attached to the sides of the teeth facing the inside of one’s mouth. Dr. Hewett explained another form of “invisible” braces: “Braces themselves are these little squares that are glued to the teeth. Invisible braces were originally just clear braces, so they were still these little braces that are glued to the teeth, but they’re made out of ceramic or clear material…but now they have Invasalign, which is a series of aligner trays which pro-

gressively straighten your teeth over a period of time.” However, this alternative is not perfect, Dr. Hewett continued. “The disadvantage of that type of thing is that it does not move teeth three-dimensionally as well as braces do, so it’s not a pure substitute for having braces on your teeth.” It seems that today’s generation of children ought to consider themselves fortunate to have these advantages of modern braces. Carolynn Muci, a former braces-wearer, put it, “I’d definitely say that kids who have braces today have a much better experience than we did a generation ago.” The field of orthodontics has covered much ground over the centuries.

Opinions WEST SIDE STORIES June, 2012

POLICY

Who Wears Short Shorts? Everyone! How practical is West’s dress code?

Erin Stapleton g Staff Writer

I will start with the precaution that the following steps on many toes and might not be music to many ears. Now that that has been said, someone needs to be real. I am raising my hand to be that girl. The dress code, regarding short lengths, is inconsiderate. Yeah, yeah, we have all heard the complaints buzzing around campus, but this is more than a superficial fashion injustice. First of all, I would like to cite the actual regulation in the Wauwatosa West Handbook regarding short lengths: “Clothing must be as long as the first knuckle on the longest finger on your hand when your arms are hanging by your side.” This provision seemingly gives some slack—just a little bit under an inch, actually; that miniscule amount more than most thought was allowed, however, is insignificant. I have found in my shopping excursions over several years that finding dress code appropriate shorts—whether knuckle length or what have you— is simply not possible (unless you feel like sporting a crafty pair of Bermudas). And I have not been a pansy in my search for the “perfect pair.” I have been on the hunt since fifth grade at my private grade school, raiding Kohl’s, and Target, and Forever 21, and H&M, and JCrew, and Marshalls, etc. and not having any luck. All of the shorts I have tried on, despite the administra-

tion’s beliefs, have not been obscene or offensive in any manner, however. Simply because shorts are short does not automatically list them under “scandalous.” I like to think that I am a young woman with taste and would like to be given the trust that such a young woman deserves. And I believe I stand with several others in that desire. Shorts can be outside of the designated lengths and fit a woman’s body appropriately and tastefully. But school is your job…or so we are told; therefore, you must dress as such. Now, let’s be real again. School is not my job; rather, it is a bridge I am crossing to prepare me for my career someday and it should be treated as such. High school is a world of its own where teenagers work to find themselves and learn to become diligent contributors to society. The focus should not be a minute detail regarding clothing so much so that it takes students out of school. Instead, the focus should be shined on helping the students make their way and encouraging them to keep committed to their schoolwork. Now that is the job of the school. Unfortunately, I do not have the golden answer to this problem. My brain and my common

sense scream at me to say simply, “If the shorts do not display any obscenities or body parts not traditionally seen, then they are permissible.” HOWEVER, I definitely do not want teachers or administration looking that closely at me or any of my fellow young women at Tosa West. So what can be done? That might be up to those who care about it. I know

more students care than not, so help an honest girl out and raise your voices with intelligent cries. We do not control the length manufacturers cut out our shorts, but can control, or attempt to control, how our school dress code tolerates them. I kicked you off with the truth; you rocket forward now and make the difference in your school environment.

Stephanie Eberle g Editor-in-chief

Lesson Learned

Tosa West student Christopher Trojan shares an interesting dream

Christopher Trojan g Staff Writer

Well, I thought for a long time about a life experience to share with you guys, but I would rather share this awesome dream I had a while ago. So, in this dream I think my circle of friends and I were supposed to be the Mystery Gang from Scooby Doo, only we didn’t have a dog. We approached this old mansion and just walked through the front doors. First thing we did was split up, everyone on their own, five of us in the mansion. About two minutes into my “investigation” I found this old library thingy. I didn’t have the urge to read anything at the time but when I was there, I heard

this blood-curdling scream come from the opposite side of the mansion; it was one of my friends. I decided to keep moving. Just as I left the library, I heard a second scream; this one was much closer, inside the front hallway through which we came in. I kept moving and found a tall spiral staircase that lead to the top of this tower. When I got to the top I looked out the window. I saw Friend #3 in the middle of a courtyard, but just as I was about to yell to him, this long, pale white appendage broke through a window, grabbed his ankle, and dragged him through the window from which it came. I was then that I

realized that this was no Scooby Doo. Just as I began to descend down the staircase, I saw Friend #4 on the first floor with his flashlight. Just like Friend #3, something grabbed his ankle and flipped him on his back. Instead of screaming like the others, he just looked up at me with a puzzled look on his face, as if he didn’t even know me. Nowhere was safe; I climbed back up the stairs, out the window, and down the wall onto a low rooftop. I began to walk down it when I broke below me. My foot was caught on the broken planks of what was the rooftop. Hanging upside down, I looked up, trying to regain myself. Right in

front of me was a mutilated pasty white obese monster. It just stared at me from two feet away for about 30 seconds before raising its arm and wrapping it around my arms and neck. After I was locked in place by his arm, the monster opened up its gut and shoved me inside. This was the last thing I remember before waking up. The moral of this story is to not play M-rated videogames or to watch ratedR movies until you are old enough to do so. They mess with your head and give you crazy dreams and thoughts and distract you during the day.

West Side

West Side Stories (WSS) believes that it is essential to preserve the freedom of the press in order to preserve a free society. Therefore, WSS will resist all attempts at censorship and will serve the best interests of the students. WSS will be guided in publication by a concern for the truth, will strive to provide a comprehensive account of events in the school/community, will strive to be a leader of student opinion through its editorials, and will be an open forum of the exchange of comment and criticism. WSS’s editorial page will take stands on important issues, will help protect the rights of students, will support groups seeking

STORIES

the betterment of the community, will support candidates for school office, and will serve as a constructive critic. Columns and reviews will be signed unless there is a consensus of opinion among the WSS editors. Copies of the complete WSS editorial policy are available in Room 267 at West High School. Letters to the Editor: Letters are accepted from all readers. Editors have the right to edit for length and obscenity, but will not alter the original meaning of the materials. All submitted letters must be signed. Subscription information: For a sub-

scription, please send $20.00 payable to Wauwatosa West High School. Send to West Side Stories, c/o Wauwatosa West High School, 11400 W. Center St. Wauwaotsa, WI 53226 Awards: Wisconsin Newspaper Associations awarded West Side Stories a second place in 2007-2008, a first place 2008-2009 in the General Excellence category. West Side Stories has also received a Bronze Medalist ranking from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association. A number of students have also placed individually in state and national writing competitions.

Editors: Ellyn Kirtley: Editor-InChief Stephanie Eberle: EditorIn-Chief

Photographers: Ben Makhlouf Designers: Jarrett Biefeld

Staff Writers: Mark Salamone Breanna Subotich Brianna Blinkiewicz Jennifer Flynn: Copy Editor Natalie Mullins Erin Stapleton Caylin Rosene: Photography Illustrators: Editor Sullivan Boyd Jordan Llanas Jess Suson Jack Wongtam: Design and Layout Editor

Features 5

Features

WEST SIDE STORIES

June, 2012

BURRITOS BUENOS LOCALES West Side Stories staff settles once and for all who has the best burrito in town and looks at what makes up a Chipotle burrito.

THE SHOWDOWN Chipotle

Being in such close proximity to our own Tosa West, Chipotle has proven itself to be a staple in the average high schoolers diet. For that reason, I went into my review of the Chipotle burrito with a bit of a bias. Upon eating my chicken burrito (one of many from their fine establishment) I found it just as satisfying and delicious as ever. For a substantial burrito, which many cannot even finish, the cost is approximately $6.50 (slightly higher when you opt for steak). Quite cheap when you take into consideration the fast service, various selections and portion sizing. You’re also able to choose exactly what’s wrapped into your burrito. For instance, I was able to choose between brown rice and white; black or pinto beans; and a variety of salsas. The atmosphere of Chipotle itself is quite welcoming and friendly. The workers are always prepared to greet you with a smile and will never kick you out if you perhaps “overstay your welcome”. You get the feeling that they want you to eat there and are happy to have you as a customer. Chipotle has once again proven itself worthy of the affection of teenage taste buds. 4 ½ stars.

Qdoba

Perhaps it was because of my loyal dedication to Chipotle, but after eating my burrito from Qdoba I found myself thoroughly unimpressed. As much as I would like to look for something positive to say about my experience at Qdoba, I simply cannot think of one delightful aspect. I personally found Qdoba’s burritos to be quite lacking despite the fact that it cost the slightly higher price of $6.99. The rice was at need for cilantro, the meat (steak) was cold and had a strange taste, and the tortilla shell encasing the burrito was mushy. Not to mention the terrible service that we were treated to, where the workers paid absolutely no attention to us and took their precious time when preparing my burrito. I can’t say much about the actual atmosphere of Qdoba itself because I decided to take out, but the short amount of time that I spent in there while ordering my burrito felt loud and frenzied. All in all, I felt that the service was severely lacking, the food itself was far from satisfactory, and the atmosphere was anything but welcoming. A burrito is still a burrito though and for that reason I would give it 2 stars.

Habenero’s

Upon entering Habaneros, I thought that the atmosphere was the most spectacular by far! The artwork and decorations surrounding the tables were absolutely gorgeous. Based on the interior, I immediately had high expectations for the food that they were going to serve me. The staff was extremely friendly and helpful as they catered to all of our needs and the food itself was actually quite good. The “Macho Grande Burrito” (my selection) was quite delicious. It didn’t exceed Guadalupe’s burrito, but it was nevertheless quite tasty. I do however have a few complaints with Habaneros. One, the food was pretty pricey in comparison to all of the others. My single burrito cost $10.99 and that was the cheapest of its kind on the menu. Also, it took a long amount of time for us to actually get our food after ordering (about 20 minutes) which may not seem like that long until you take into consideration the 5 minute preparation time of the other three burritos. So although my burrito quest didn’t exactly end with a bang, Habaneros was still (in all fairness) very good and for that reason I give it 4 stars.

Guadalupe’s

When I walked through the doors of Guadalupe’s in the midst of my burrito journey, I thought no burrito would ever be able to top Chipotle’s. I was wrong. Before I start talking about the savory tastes of the burrito, I should first mention that the atmosphere of Guadalupe’s was beautiful and the workers were extremely friendly. They stopped by multiple times to make sure that all of our needs were taken care of. First, my selection of the “Burrito Meal” at Guadalupe’s (costing $8.95) was the cheapest in comparison to all of the others since came with a meal was well. The “Burrito Meal” came with of rice and refried beans. The burrito was also the largest in comparison to all of the others- so much so that my sister and I split one of them and we were still not able to completely finish it. The burrito can only be described as perfection in a shell. It was heated perfectly with amazing blend of tastes contained inside. The shell was slightly crispy and the meat was tender. The workers of Guadalupe’s were right in saying that they “serve the best burritos in town.” I would give it a solid 5 stars.

Brianna Blinkiewicz g Staff Writer

What makes a good burrito?

Freshly Grated Cheese Cilantro Lime Rice Soft Tortilla Slow-Cooked Beans Crisp Romaine Lettuce

Marinated Grilled Steak Creamy Guacamole Fresh Sour Cream Spicy Salsa Courtesy of chipotle.com BEN MAKHLOUF g Photographer

Opinions WEST SIDE STORIES June, 2012

DATING

Get Back In the Dating Game Erin Stapleton g Staff Writer

Stuck in a rut? Sick of the same old night at the movie theatre? Change it up this summer and try something new. While movies and popcorn are a favorite pastime, they don’t leave much room for one-on-one time. Quality time is what will bring you summer bliss… and good thing because our city is chock full of venues for a great time shared with your special someone. Take a look!

1. Alterra at the Lake— Everyone has enjoyed a coffee at the Tosa hotspot. Drive a little farther and enjoy an afternoon at the beautiful “Alterra @ Lake.” Get a chilled coffee or delicious fruit smoothie and enjoy the peace of the water while sitting on the outside deck.

2. See a Play under the Stars—If you want a romantic evening to remember, American Players Theatre is your destination. Located in Spring Green, it is a bit of a hike, but assuredly well worth it. Quite simply, it is a theatre in the middle of the woods completely open to the nature around it with impeccable drama that is nationally renowned. Pack a picnic to enjoy together before the show and plan some time for a stroll through the breathtaking woods. Delightful.

4. Fly a Kite—It’s a beautiful day 3. Savory out? Any wind? Take the opportunity Burgers—Guys and head over to Veteran Park’s Gift will love this: of Wings shop and buy an inexpenburgers, burgsive kite, set it up in a few short miners, burgers, and utes, and send it flying. Something incredibly delicious ones at that. fun to share together…reminds you Stack’d Burger Bar, located in the of when you were little and gets you Third Ward, serves award-winning playful again. burgers that rock your world and don’t slop. Vegetarian? No worries! They have plenty of options for you including a very tasty black bean veggie burger. Whatever you or7. Bristol der, make sure to choose Renaissance the pretzel roll bun…it is Faire—Somea true treat for your taste thing out of buds. the ordinary, yet completely 5. Night in—Put on some comfy clothes, turn up unforgettable. your favorite music, and get creative! Sometimes the simplest 6. Take a Hike—in Wisconsin, nature Entering the Rethings make for the best of times…try cooking. Nothing fancy, is abundant…take advantage of that. naissance fair is like taking a step just open the cupboards, freezer, and refrigerator and concoct Try out Lapham Peak in Delafield— back to a completely different era full something yummy out of whatever you have in front of you. stunning nature trails, thriving of corsets, mud wrestling, jousting, and It might sound gross, but sloppy joe English muffin pizzas wildlife, and a 45 foot tall observamore. While there, dine on favorites tion tower that overlooks miles of such as steak on a stake, turkey legs, are de-licious. Whatever landscape. You have options there as garlic mushrooms, and good ole’ Sasodd masterpiece you create well; you can hike, bike, safras root beer. Plan to shop, too; the together, it will bring plenty run, or just be leisurely shopping. is. incredible. Step out of your of good laughs. 9. Visit a Farmer’s and share good convercomfort zones together and let Market—Tosa has sation in a beautiful loose at this completely friendly, a fantastic farmer’s place. zany experience. market every 8. Get Cycling—Hop on Saturday mornyour bikes and take a ing during the ride on the Menomonee summer months River Parkway. It is right 10. Laser Tag Advenright behind Café in your backyard and, best ture—Give it a chance. Seemingly Hollander. It has of all, completely free. It gets completely nerdy, but ridiculously fun. booths selling everything from oryour exercise in for the day and Wear tennis shoes and prepare to run around an ganic produce to popcorn to flowers lets you be active together. Plus, Aztec themed arena with a sa-weet laser gun. Make sure to gourmet chips. Order a mouthit might provide some healthy to sign up for at least two games, though, because after the watering crepe to share and take competition to see who can pedal first you will want to get right back in there and cream your everything in. Bring a bag in case harder. date…in a completely good-hearted way of course. you are dazzled by anything and help the Earth, too!

FEATURES 7 WEST SIDE STORIES June, 2012

Random Chatter Everything you want to know about social studies teacher Riley Mewes Andrew Albee g Guest Writer

1.Favorite Doughnut?

Riley.

Chocolate Long Johns

5. Is there such thing as a stupid question?

2. What did you want to be when you grow up? An Astronaut, I thought it would be cool. 3. If you were a shoe, what shoe would you be? A soccer cleat on Chistian Geraldo’s foot, because I would be the richest shoe ever. 4. How long have you known Guse (another Wauwatosa West Social Studies teacher? Since kindergarten. After he first met me he tried to tell his mother about me but since he couldn’t pronounce his “r”, he ended up calling me Wiley instead of

Yes, the one you just asked... no, that was a good question. 6. Which is better: Ice Cream or Custard?

Do dragon tears really turn into Jelly Beans? 10. And what is the answer to that random question? Still searching . . . but in my heart, I believe yes.

Ice cream 7. How would you break down a Lego city? I would smash through it with a mallet. 8. What was your Favorite Halloween Costume? Lady Godiva, I got to wear a cool body suit. 9. What is a random question you have?

The Best of Summer A Relay for Life After nine months of schoolwork, West students are ready to relax--check out what they’re planning

Students raise money and awareness for cancer

Maddy Jordan gStaff Writer

For many students at Wauwatosa touched by cancer. Students will West, relay for life is more than just then be able to reflect on the counta simple night to spend laughing less illuminated bags during a silent with friends and blowing off steam lap around the track. before the stress of exams; it is an “I think it will be an extremely impactful night that relates directly humbling time for all of the stuto their very own lives. For them, dents” says Sophomore Mackenzie this night will be a heartfelt experiHalkola, “I think that’s the point of ence that will bring up many emothe night where people will realtions and memories from loved ones ize the real meaning of this entire that have struggled with cancer. event”. These students will find this night Although a great majority do find to not just be one for socializing, but the night’s events to be something instead it will be a celebration for that should be taken seriously, some those who have overcome the battle have joined with different intentions. and mourning for those who were “While I do see the deeper meaning not as fortunate. of the night, I One thing that I think it will be an extremely hum- think that it will can easily be said bling time for all of the student... I just be a good about RFL is that think that’s the point of the night opportunity to it will be a great where people will realize the real spend some time awakening for having fun with meaning of this engire event many students at my friends”, says Wauwatosa West that feel that their Sophomore Sarah Otto. This is a family is alone in their struggles common feeling in many of the parwith cancer. Junior Jordan Voit says, ticipants of RFL, and it’s not a bad “I think a lot of times people think one. RFL is not just a time of serithey are the only ones when they ousness. It’s important to remember find out about a loved one with canthat it is also a celebration for those cer. I think that relay is a great way who have overcome cancer and for to show them that there are many the donations people have made others in the student body that are towards the cause. “What we need going through the same things that to remember is that not all families they are”. This “togetherness” will have had losses when it comes to be especially emphasized during the cancer. It’s important to remember relays “Luminaria Ceremony” where the ones who have, but I feel it is candles will light bags that bear just as important to celebrate the the names of people who have been families who have overcome it”.

What is the absolute best profile and watch the world go by, thing to do in the summer? We you are one of many. And on the have all been given three months other hand, if you like to be out to get away from this school. Othand about in the summer, you are erwise known as about 12 weeks, certainly not alone either. After all, 84 days, 2,016 hours, or even there is so much to do. There’s the 12,096 minutes away from tests, state fair, amusement parks, muhomework, exams, and all the seums, restaurants, movies, malls, rest. There is a reason we students and many more places to go and are allowed to escape to the heavpeople to see. enly glory that is our summer. We Sophomore MacKenzie Thomphave worked hard to get through son says, “I like going to the beach the work dished out, all for this and probably hanging out with well-deserved break. Don’t waste friends.” She also said, “I go to Six the marvelous time Flags every sum12 weeks, 84 days, 2,016 mer.” Brandon Moy, given to us. hours, or even 12,096 The question is a senior, said, “I what would make this minutes away from tests, go to the Dells, Six the perfect summer? homework, exams, and all Flags...I normally We asked a bunch of go somewhere out of the rest. Tosa West kids and Wisconsin.” He later the answers really varied. When said, “You have to go to Summerasked what the best thing to do fest! Everything about it is just so over summer was, Jordin Schnell, awesome!” Reggie Cole told West a senior, suggested, “I would stay Side Stories, “I like to keep it fresh home and relax because during and new,” and suggested, “Stay the school year everything is so busy. Don’t just sit around. If you’re stressed and during the summer into sports, work out. If you’re not, you just have a lot of free time to get a job if you can. Hang out with spend by yourself.” Junior Adriana friends and just live.” Dunson replied, “Go to travel and No matter what your opinion waterparks and hang out with on summer is, let’s all relish the friends and family.” Sophomore great wonders of vacation before Megan Jay immediately said, we’re dragged back to another year “Camping!” of school! If you like to just keep a low

Brianna Blinkiewicz gStaff Writer

Features WEST SIDE STORIES

SCHOOL

Jess Suson g Illustrator

This data is taken from a survey given to West students during their homerooms.