December, 2019 Vol. 56: #3December, 2019 Vol. 56: #3December, 2019 Vol. 56: #3December, 2019 Vol. 56: #3December, 2019 Vol. 56: #3

Romeoville High School

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Win in the SPARTUS “Design the Holiday Cover” Contest (page 11)

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The SPARTUS is the studentnewsmagazine of Romeoville HighSchool and is published for the students,staff, and residents of the RHS atten-dance district. Editorial content is solelythe opinion of the staff and does notnecessarily reflect the views of thefaculty, administration, or any organi-zations other than the SPARTUS.As the SPARTUS is an open forum,letters to the editor, independentfeatures, and guest editorials are invitedand encouraged. They can be given toany SPARTUS member or placed in themailbox outside room 42. Names mustaccompany all submissions; but, theycan be withheld on request.

HOME PAGE 2Editorial: It’s a Wonderful Life

Managing EditorsManaging EditorsManaging EditorsManaging EditorsManaging EditorsJoshua LeeAryanny Ramirez

R e p o r t e r sR e p o r t e r sR e p o r t e r sR e p o r t e r sR e p o r t e r sNathan Ashfield, Michael Bunch,Donovan Dehoyos, Erika Garcia,Zach Gibson, Kayla Harris,Amanda Kitchens, AndrewKoroma, Emily Leahy, AlyssaLeonard, Amanda Listermann,Jenna Mandrelle, GregMazurkiewicz, IsabellaMcLoughlin, Michelle Mendoza,Mirko Miocic, Marcos Miranda,Elizabeth Montoya, MadelineOderio, Antonio Orozco, JosePacheco, Edith Perez, JaydenPerkins, Tyler Rehbock, IanRennert, Krystina Robinson,Paulina Rojas, Samantha Ruano,Taylor Sanders, Destin WhitakerPhotographersPhotographersPhotographersPhotographersPhotographersNathan Ashfield, SamanthaRuano, Aryanny Ramirez

AdvisorAdvisorAdvisorAdvisorAdvisorMr. Chuck NieblingLiteracy AdministratorLiteracy AdministratorLiteracy AdministratorLiteracy AdministratorLiteracy AdministratorMs. Kristin AugleDepartment ChairDepartment ChairDepartment ChairDepartment ChairDepartment ChairMs. Elizabeth BirminghamSpecial Thanks toSpecial Thanks toSpecial Thanks toSpecial Thanks toSpecial Thanks toThe Print Shop

In this reality show life we livein today, it’s easy for all of us to losefocus on the truly important things.So, in keeping with our desire tomake this holiday issue a celebrationof the best things about the season,our editors would like to introduceyou to a holiday classic that deservesto find a whole new audience.

In 1947 (yes - a long timeago), Director Frank Capra releaseda movie that captured the hearts ofthe nation. The movie was called “It’sa Wonderful Life.” Since that timethe movie has become one of the mostwatched movies in the history ofHollywood. Today, and especiallyduring this season, you can find itshowing constantly on one cablechannel or another.

The movie focuses on the lifeof George Bailey, a small town bankerin Bedford Falls. He has spent his lifehelping the citizens of the commu-nity by being a fair and often toogenerous man. He was the best friendto everyone in need, even if it meantsome tough times for his own family.

When his Uncle Billy putsthe business in dire straights, Georgedecides the only way to save thecompany, and the customers whotrust and need him, is to commitsuicide since he will be worth moredead than alive. On Christmas Eve,he sets out to do just that.

Enter Clarence, the guardianangel sent to look after George.When he can’t convince George tochange his plans, he decides to showhim instead what Bedford Falls wouldhave been had George never existed.And that is the heartwarming andimportant message of the film.

If you can sit through a filmwhere people don’t fly, or things blowup, or animated characters break intosong, we highly recommend spendinga few hours of a far too busy life torelax and enjoy “It’s a WonderfulLife.” Maybe it will make you smile.Maybe it will change your perspec-tive just a little. And maybe you’llunderstand the sign on the wall inGeorge Bailey’s office that reads: “Allyou can take with you is that whichyou’ve given away.”

Happy Holidays!

Have a Safe and THave a Safe and THave a Safe and THave a Safe and THave a Safe and Terrific Break Everyone!errific Break Everyone!errific Break Everyone!errific Break Everyone!errific Break Everyone!

NEWS & NOTES3

For more information or toReport Bullying & Safety Concerns

www.vvsd.org/rhs

Stop theBullying

or talk to a staff member

By Aryanny RamirezWith finals coming, students

are swamped with homework, tests,reviewing. All add to the stress. Hereare some tips to help make studyingfor finals a little easier:

* Organize yourself: Clear off yourstudy area and free yourself from anydistractions. Set out everything youwill need to study.

* Stay well rested: Sleep is veryimportant. Be sure to get a goodnight’s sleep so you can stay awakeand focused for the finals. Avoid all-nighters because they just add on tothe stress and you are less likely toretain the information you study.

* Test out many studying methods:Try out different strategies and seewhich one helps you remember theinformation the best, such as puttingthe information in a song or rhyme.

* Color Code: Color Code yournotes, highlight the most importantinformation in one color and the lessimportant in a different color.

* Prioritize: Prioritize your studytime. Focus on spending more timewith the most important informationor class first. Obvious, maybe. But toomany put this off to last instead.

* Study for the style of the exam: Ifthe exam is going to be multiplechoice, you’ll most likely need to

know definitions and concepts. If it’sgoing to have essay questions, focuson your understanding of the con-cepts and have examples in mind.

* Reward yourself: After every bitof information you study, give yourselfa little piece of candy or a little snackto help replenish yourself. Makestudying a little more fun this way.

Good luck everybody.

By Samantha BestwinaAs the seasons change, many

people suffer from the winter blues.Seasonal Affective Disorder

(S.A.D.) is a type of depression that’srelated to the change in seasons. Thisphenomenon is so common that it hasrecently become a diagnosabledisorder. It is caused by your biologi-cal clock (reduced sunlight maydisrupt your internal clock and causedepression), serotonin levels drop-ping, and melatonin levels.

Symptoms of S.A.D. are over-sleeping, appetite changes-includingcraving more carbohydrates, weightgain, and tiredness or low energy. Youmay feel depressed most of the day,nearly every day, lose interest inthings you used to enjoy, feel slug-gish and agitated and/or have diffi-culty concentrating.

If not treated, S.A.D. can lead tosocial withdrawal, problems in workor school, substance abuse, mentaldisorders, and suicidal thoughts orbehavior.

Some ways to help treat sea-sonal depression are:

1. Therapies like cognitivebehavioral therapy, Chronotherapy,and light therapy (Phototherapy).

2. Self care and exercise.3. Medications.4. Specialists like a clinical

psychologist or a psychiatrist.5. Spending more time with

friends and family.

Seasonal Mood ChangesTips for Getting Through Finals

Reprinted from Dec. 2018

Let’s Be CarefulOut There

Under pressure from manyfronts, including the government,Uber has released an internal audit .In it they documented over 6,000assaults by drivers on customers overthe past two years. One problem -insufficient background checks thatallowed a few thousand convictedcriminals to become drivers.

The takeaway from this report issimple: Don’t ride alone.

Random Facts forthe HolidaysBy Edith Perez

Here are a few factsto amaze your family and friends thisholiday season.* Americans spend more than $7billion on wrapping paper each year.* “We wish you a Merry Christmas”was originally a threat.* Jingle Bells was written for Thanks-giving, not Christmas.* Iceland has 13 Santas and one oldlady who kidnaps children.* In Germany, Christmas Eve is saidto be a magical time when you canhear animals talking.* Each year more than 3 billionholiday cards are sent in the U.S.alone.* All the gifts in the 12 days ofChristmas would equal 364 gifts.* Christmas trees usually grow forabout 15 years before they are sold.* Three new evergreen trees areplanted for each one harvested.*Visa cards are used about 6,000times every minute during theholiday season.* The busiest shopping day is notBlack Friday, but two days beforeChristmas.* One in three men wait until Christ-mas Eve to do their shopping.* The world’s biggest snowman was113 feet tall and was built in Maine.* Rudolph’s red nose is probably theresult of a parasitic infection of therespitory system.

Happy holidays everyone!

A LITTLE HOLIDAY HO HO HO

4

By Michael BunchThe “Elf on the Shelf” was originally a children’sbook created by Carol V. Aebersold and Bell Chanda.The elf serves as a “Scout elf” there to observe children’sbehavior as Christmas approaches. The reason the elfmoves to a different spot in the house every morning isbecause it flies back to the North Pole each evening andreports the child’s behavior.

There are rules to the Elf on the Shelf: he or sheneeds a name, NO ONE CAN TOUCH THE ELF, andthe elf will not speak or move while the kids are awake.Bell Chanda said that the Elf on the Shelf ideadates back to a 1970’s family tradition her family had.This allows kids to tell the elf the good things they havedone everyday so they are not put on the Naughty listwhen the elf goes back to report to Santa. Kids are alsovery exuberant in the morning as they wake up andsearch for the new spot where the elf may be hiding.

By Ian RennertFruit cake, with its dried candied fruits and

deceivingly tough texture, is a food that has recordstracing back to the ancient Egyptians.

Fruit cake nowadays is typically associated withthe Christmas season, as great of a gift fruit cake can be,however, records show that fruit cake was sometimesmade to place on the coffin of loved ones to representeternity or afterlife in ancient egyptian times. Howeverthis cake hadn’t gained popularity or common use untilthe Roman times, in which fruit cake was typically thefood of choice to send to the soldiers. On top of that, whenthe Crusades were started, many crusaders were sent thiscake as a gift from home.

Throughout the centuries fruit cake has under-gone various changes on how to make it: pomegranateseeds, pine nuts, and barley mash in the Roman times, topreserved fruit, spices and honey in the medieval era, andeventually adding larger amounts of sugar as cheapresources poured in with the discovery of America. Inaddition, fruit from the Mediteranian area were candiedand thrown into the mix as well. Even alcohol was added to the cake in the Victorian era.

Despite the cakes (interesting?) flavor, itcontains one of the richest histories of all our Christmasdishes. By Destin Whitaker

Building a snowman can be difficult if you don’t havethe proper technique. Many people fail starting off, butthe more you try the better you will get. The correct wayto make a proper snowman is:* Choose the right snow (can’t be too dry)* Start packing. Take the snow and pack it into a ball,then, put your back into it and roll the snow across thelawn to make the base* Repeat, do everything again but now make the secondball a little smaller. Then do the same thing with a thirdone.* Stack em. Start from largest to smallest and pack snowin between the snow balls* Now it’s time to accesorize.A good way to make your snowman stand out and bestronger is spraying some water on it to make it harden

and glisten. Clothing your snowman and decorating him can be fun and adding food to your snowman can be beneficial to birds in the winter. A top hat with bird food wrapped across the rim, orange slices for eyes, carrots for noses a scarf wrapped in bird food and a couple buttons to top off the snowman. And finally some good, strong twigs for the birds to sit on while they wait their turn.

So be creative and have some fun!

By Marcos MirandaDuring the holiday season of 1950, a new holiday

song was introduced that told the tale of an inanimate

snowman that was here to spread good cheer.Written by Steve Nelson and Jack Rollins,

“Frosty the Snowman” became an international hit, and

an everlasting part of many peoples’ holiday celebrations.

The lovably jolly snowman, who possessed “a buttonnostril, and two eyes produced from coal,” became as

recognizable as other non-religious holiday symbols like

Santa Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,

which similarly went on to appear on TV.The 1979 holiday season showed the first display-

ing of Rudolph and Frosty’s Christmas in July. This TV

special teamed the snowman with the Red-NosedReindeer in a journey where they faced the evil wizard

Winterbolt. In this Frosty episode, it’s revealed that

Frosty and Crystal now are the snow-parents of a snow-

man family.In 1998, Michael Keaton starred in JackFrost, a live-motion movie that is based partly at theFrosty tale. The movie tells of a neglectful dad who dies

and is returned to life as a snowman in hisson’s front yard.

Now, more than 70 years later, westill have the jolly jingle of Frosty stuck

in our heads - and our hearts.

When FWhen FWhen FWhen FWhen Frosty Came to Trosty Came to Trosty Came to Trosty Came to Trosty Came to Townownownownown

Having Some FHaving Some FHaving Some FHaving Some FHaving Some Fun on a “Snow Dayun on a “Snow Dayun on a “Snow Dayun on a “Snow Dayun on a “Snow Day ”””””

Now About that Elf on the ShelfNow About that Elf on the ShelfNow About that Elf on the ShelfNow About that Elf on the ShelfNow About that Elf on the Shelf

The History of the Beloved FThe History of the Beloved FThe History of the Beloved FThe History of the Beloved FThe History of the Beloved Fruit Cakeruit Cakeruit Cakeruit Cakeruit Cake

& JINGLE JINGLE

By Isabella McLoughlin All around the world, Christmas is celebrated in

unique ways. If you are from the United States, you morethan likely are familiar with Santa, a happy old man whocomes out once a year, bringing children presents if theyhave been good and coal if they are bad. These types of“traditions” vary from country to country.

In Austria, there is a creature that everyoneknows as Krampus who roams the streets during Christ-mas time and frightens kids and punishes the ones thatare bad. In the first week of December, young men dressup as the Krampus (especially on the eve of St. NicholasDay) frightening children with clattering chains andbells. Krampus is not the only tradition in Austria: St.Nicholas rewards the well-behaved children, whereasKrampus captures the bad ones and hides them away.

Another tradition comes from Iceland. During the 13days leading up to Christmas, 13 troll-like figures, calledthe Yule Lads come out to “play.” For each night ofYuletide, children place their best shoes by the windowand a different Yule Lad visits leaving gifts for nice girlsand boys and rotting potatoes for the naughty ones. Cladin traditional Icelandic costume, these fellas are prettymischievous, and their names hint at the type of troublethey like to cause.

In Norway, there is a tradition that goes way back,and that is to hide your brooms on Christmas Eve. This isdone because many years ago, people believed thatwitches came out on the night before Christmas and itwas believed that hiding your brooms would ensure theykept their distance from you and your loved ones. It’s atradition that dates back centuries to when peoplebelieved that witches and evil spirits came out on Christ-mas Eve looking for brooms to ride on. To this day, manypeople still hide their brooms in the safest place in thehouse to stop them from being stolen by the witches.

Compared to many countries around the world, jollyold St. Nick is looking pretty good.

By Antonio Orozco Around the world, a universal treat during the

cold months for many is hot chocolate. It’s traditional for

many cultures to make this treat differently.

In Germany their version of the drink is called Kakao,

but it is not the same as the hot chocolate we are used to.

You can drink this drink with it being hot or cold and it

will still taste as good. It is only considered “hot choco-

late” when actual chocolate is put into the drink from a

chocolate bar. Milk or water can be used due to

the preference and there is often an added sweetener.

Spain also has their own way of making the

famous drink. Spaniards make the drink dark brown and

thick, made from milk and bitter chocolate. It is also

thickened with a bit of corn or potato starch.

People from France will melt their chocolate in hot

water and then add milk and mix it all together.

They mix it until the liquid starts to get creamy, which

is a rather time consuming process. Not only is the hot

chocolate being served, but they will also have a glass of

water along with the drink.And in America, just buy the Swiss Miss.

5

Over 600 FOver 600 FOver 600 FOver 600 FOver 600 Food Itemsood Itemsood Itemsood Itemsood Itemscollected for needycollected for needycollected for needycollected for needycollected for needyfamilies in our areafamilies in our areafamilies in our areafamilies in our areafamilies in our area

NHSNHSNHSNHSNHS

Thanks RHS!

Holidays Around the WHolidays Around the WHolidays Around the WHolidays Around the WHolidays Around the Worldorldorldorldorld

By Greg Mazurkiewicz In 2010 the holiday season was tampered down

by the recession compared to this years holidays sitting athistoric highs in the economy.

Technology gifts in 2010 were the iPhone 4 andiPad. The most wanted technology this year is smartwatches, Air Pods, iPhone 11, smart tvs, and in- homeassistants.

The average amount of money spent on gifts perperson in the 2010 holiday was $714 but this year it isprojected to be on average of $920 per person. In 2010real trees cost on average $36.12 with fake trees costing$64.61. This holiday season it is predicted for real trees tocost on average $80 with fake trees costing $110.

Looking Back a DecadeLooking Back a DecadeLooking Back a DecadeLooking Back a DecadeLooking Back a Decade

Around the WAround the WAround the WAround the WAround the World with Hot Chocolateorld with Hot Chocolateorld with Hot Chocolateorld with Hot Chocolateorld with Hot Chocolate By Zachary McGladderyChristmas the most joyous day of the year and it

is the day for giving to others.The hottest gifts to givethis Christmas for children would be a Nintendo Switch,Harry Potter invisibility cloak, Treasure X Aliens,andDreamWorks hatching Toothless.Finding gifts for teens isjust as simple as finding gifts for children. Some of thegifts that teens would want for this Christmas: AppleAirPods, wireless charging pad, 12-in-1 arcade cabinet, LARQself cleaning water bottle, cell phone stand,and an Xbox One S.

Those are the gifts that makes this season thegreatest gift giving season of this year.

Some Gift Ideas for the SeasonSome Gift Ideas for the SeasonSome Gift Ideas for the SeasonSome Gift Ideas for the SeasonSome Gift Ideas for the Season

LET IT SNOW 6

By Amanda ListermannWinter break is a full two weeks to enjoy ourselves

and it’s just around the corner! There are so many activi-ties that the winter could have in store for you. Finals willbe over and all your hard work will have paid off, so findsomething you like to spend the break and enjoy theseason.

* Let it snow! If it snows during the break, makethe most of it. Find a big hill to go sledding down and feelthe breeze in your face all the way to the bottom. Maybeeven try snowboarding. You could also build a snowmanwith the perfect carrot nose, make snow angels, or have asnowball fight right in your front yard.

* Stay inside. It may be cold outside but insidethere is plenty to do. Watch movies with your fuzzy sockson, your whole body covered under a blanket, and a hotcup of hot cocoa. Maybe have a movie marathon. Other

By Amanda Kitchens Deciding what you can do with your signifi-

cant other or best friends during the holidays because ofthe weather can be a struggle. Holidays can be ex-tremely fun and can make a very cold day very enjoy-able! Here are five fun dates to share with someonespecial.

1. Go Ice SkatingIce Skating downtown is one of the best things to

do in the winter. The McCormick Tribune Plaza, whichis in Millenium Park, is a great way to take in the heartof downtown. Another favorite is the Maggie DaleyPark ice skating ribbon which is near Millenium Park,but the difference is the rink is a ribbon and curvesthrough snow dusted pine trees and city lights. Bothrinks have free admission only with a cost of skaterentals! ($13 weekdays and $15 weekends)

2. Lincoln Park Zoo Lights FestivalThe Zoo Lights Festival is held annually at

Lincoln Park Zoo which displays over 2 million lights.This is a perfect winter date night destination, drinkingsome hot chocolate and observing the dazzling lightswhile taking a nice walk with your loved one! This is afree event that has multiple themed activities such ascarolers, ice carvings, and a music and light show.

3. Gingerbread House CompetitionWhat’s better than a little competition while

having some fun? It could get messy but you’ll havesome really cute outcomes. You can also taste yourcreation.

4. Holiday Movie NightWatch classic holiday movies for a little mara-

thon. This is a no expense date that only requires ablanket, some snacks, and a special someone you wantto share your favorite christmas movie with.

5. Drive Around the Neighborhoods to See theBest House Decorations

Very simple but festive. Find what neighborhoodshave the best decorations while sipping your favoritewarm holiday drink. It’s very nice to see the differentways people decorate for the holidays!

A Little Winter Fun: Part 1 Fun: Part 2

options include a board game with your friendsand family or doing a jigsaw puzzle. You couldalso find a good book to read from the schoollibrary before break or at the White Oak Libraryto read all break long.

* Make food. Try out a new recipe and haveyour family or friends taste test. You could bakecookies, make pies, or cinnamon rolls. Or youcould cook a casserole, soup, or chilli. But youcould also make a gingerbread house and deco-rate it with frosting and sprinkles and anything

else you could think of. Then eat the masterpiece after-wards.

* Holiday cheer. You could carol holiday music, putup decorations, or make homemade gifts for friends orfamily. Use Pinterest, other ideas found online, or yourown creativity to make either the decorations or the gifts.

* Go out. There are plenty of stores and malls allaround to enjoy an afternoon looking around and maybeeven get to see a showing of a Christmas tree with lightsdancing to the Christmas music. There are also things todo like ice skating. There is one just in Bolingbrook calledRocket Ice Skating Rink. Bowling is another option andthere are tons of bowling alleys around such asRomeoville Bowlero, Joliet Town and Country Lane, andPlainfield Lanes and Escape Room

* Chill with your friends. Haha, get it, cause it’scold outside? Anyway, find time to spend with yourfriends and spread the holiday cheer. You could do any ofthese activities with your friends and have a super fun day.

Fill winter break with tons of memories and funtimes. Enjoy the break from school and happy holidaysRHS!

SENIOR SNAPSHOTS7Ms. Jocelyn HollandMs. Osa Igbinovia

Mr. Praise Osinloye

By Elizabeth Montoya Osa Igbinovia is the most specular person you

will ever meet from her pure kindness to her strongacademics morals. She has it all for a true representationof a Spartan, making her a perfect person for this month’sSenior Snapshot!

“Osa is the type person who hits your car on thefirst day of school but will also send you money becauseyou’re hungry or stay up on the phone with you all nightcause you’re sad.” said Isabella Nkemeth (12).

Osa’s schedule consists of the following: PE 3,AP Lit and Comp, AP Euro, AP Calc BC, French 3, andHonors Anatomy and Physiology. As she takes on APclasses, as well as being top 10%, she is still able to beactively involved in clubs. Not only that but she is alsoinvolved in a sport. She is involved in the following; One ofthe Presidents for DECA, Vice President of SeniorCouncil, Representative in AP Council, NHS, andBadminton.

RHS teacher Mrs.Paulus said, “Osa is anamazing person. She has a great attitude not only towardsher studies, but also towards life in general. She hasdisplayed a genuine caring spirit for others.” And as herfriend, Evelyn Rodriguez (12) said, “Osa’s spirit makesRHS a memorable and positive environment for everyonearound her, and she pushes HARD for everyone to be thebest they can be - in the nicest way possible.”

By Elizabeth Montoya Praise Osinloye is someone who represents a

person with growth with his kindness, leadership, andacademics and he will make you laugh by the littlestjokes. He’s a perfect choice for this months senior snap-shot!

“I’ve known Praise since middle school and it’samazing how close we’ve gotten and how much he’sgrown! He’s one of the most talented and most kindhearted people I know. Praise represents what it means tobe a Spartan and you’ll never catch him without a smile,”said Michelle Gacek (12).

Praise is involved in many school activities: March-ing Band ( section leader and field show soloist ), JazzBand 1 and Wind Symphony ( 1st chair ), AP council,NHS, and Key Club. He also volunteers in HighpointSummer Club, and plays solos in Pep band. In the future

he wants to be an engineer, but is undecided in whatcollege to attend, but we all know wherever he goes he’lldo great!

His schedule is currently: Wind Symphony, JazzBand 1, AP Lit and Comp, Health, Pre-Calc Honors,Anatomy and Physiology Honors, and Spanish II. His APLit and Comp teacher, Mrs.Budreau said, “Praise is anawesome student! He is humorous, hard-working, andgenuinely kind. He has the coolest dance moves, and hesets the bar high for our class. I have no doubt that he willchange the world!”

As senior year is coming close to an end, Praisewants to let all the Spartans know: “Make sure yourschool experience is Divine because you will Prosper.Even if you’re not the Victor, you will always be worthy ofPraise.”

By Maddie OderioJocelyn Holland is one of the kindest people you’ll

ever meet, with an upbeat and outgoing personality toshow for it, making her an exciting senior to highlight inour last issue this semester.

“Jocelyn is hands down one of the kindest andsmartest people I’ve ever met. She brings happinesseverywhere she goes and I’m so glad we’ve gotten closerthis year,” said classmate Kristina Djordjevic (12).

Jocelyn is a hardworking student with a full andchallenging schedule starting with Ceramics, followed byAP Spanish Language, Pre-Calculus, AP EuropeanHistory, AP Literature and Composition, and then endingher day at WILCO in the CNA program. She is also theVice-President of National Honor Society, and has beeninvolved in Senior Council and AP Council.

Outside of school, she is also a swimming instruc-tor for children and a Recreation Aide for adults withdisabilities.

“Jocelyn is an amazing young lady who alwayscomes to class with a smile on her face. Her intelligence,work ethic, and dedication to learning will lead to muchsuccess in college and life. Simply put, she is awesome!”said her AP European teacher, Dr. Moro.

In the future, Holland will attend Aurora Universityto major in nursing and then hopes to become a Pediatric

Everyone deserves an Osa intheir lives! Something she would like tolet everyone know: “Surround yourselfwith people who make you a betterversion of yourself. If they aren’tcontributing to any happiness, theyaren’t worth it, life is too short. If theyaren’t helping you hop out your feel-ings and hopping into your bag, letthem go sis!”

Oncology Nurse, to makean impact on peoples’ livesafter watching her fatherovercome his own journeywith cancer.

As for RHS, she wantsto leave it with this: “Al-ways, always, always treatpeople with kindness. Younever know how much youimpact a person’s life justby being kind and caring.”

CHATROOM

Mini-Opinion #18

Mini-Opinion #2

Mini-Opinion #3

What is the best/worst gift you ever received?

Talia Makowski (12) - Best: my dog.Chloe Belbis (12) - Worst: an empty gift card.Ania Muniz (12) - Best: Sam Smith tickets.Isaac Pena (11) - Best . . . and worst: a toy truck becausemy Dad gave it to me and said, “Here’s a brand new car.”Mrs. Hill (staff) - Best: Oklahoma University pajamas.Abdullah Shoaib (12) - Best: a pink rubber chicken.Paige Principe (12) - Worst: when I was 10 I got a seasonpass to Great America . . . but I was scared of rollercoasters at the time.McKinley Underwood (12) - Best: a Stanford sweatshirt.Rochelle Rocha (12) - Worst (or Best): A box of mac-n-cheese.Jaela Foster-Burns (12) - Best: my Pandora bracelet.Miguel Ballesteros (12) - Best: a big boy Lego set.Ashanti Warren (12) - Worst: my brother bought me acolorful furry shirt.Jessica Cecchi (10) - Worst: a weird face wash thing.Mr. Rause (staff) - Best (or worst) - Jelly-of-the-Monthclub.Mo Al-Shawaiyat (12) - Worst: a bingo game.Ali Arreguin (10) - Best: I got a niece.Helena Null (11) - Worst: a box of granola bars.Milo Rodriguez (12) - Worst: when I was younger I got aLego Slave 1 and I cried because I lost one piece and itcouldn’t be built without it but - Best - three weeks later,when I found it and finally built it, it was the best gift ever.

What are you looking forward to in the next decade?

Marcella Milazzo (11) - Graduating collegeand living in Italy.Anayelli Hernandez (11) - Having kids.Monica Saravia (10) - All the new tik toks.Hailey Bischoff (12) - New opportunities and memories.Josh Moore (12) - Elon Musk’s Cybertruck.Karina Ortiz (12) - My card not being declined.Mr. Saenz (staff) - Retire.Kyra Savage (12) - Doing what I love.Gannon Orfino (11) - I’m excited to see what happens.Whatever happens, happens.Emily Leon (12) - Everything.

. . . lots looking forward to college - and money.

What is your New Year’s resolution?

Elizabeth Vasquez (12) - To get a job.Miguel Ballesteros (12) - Improve my time managementskills.Megan Mandrelle (9) - Be more organized.Austin Turner (12) - Less attitude.Jovanela Baez (12) - To relax more and make more timefor myself.Caitlyn Baisden (11) - To pass junior year.Carolina Lopez (12) - To actually start saving money.Hannah Shaikh (11) - No more hot Cheetos.Sarah Coffman (12) - To be more confident.Nick Anderson (11) - I don’t do resolutions because, if Ifail, it ruins my vibe.Alyssa Rodriguz (9) - To get out of my comfort zone andand do things I’ve always wanted but was too scared.Laisa Garcia (12) - To get to sleep earlier.Michael Lane (11) - To stop procrastinating.Weronika Tokarska (9) - To live my best life.Karina Ortiz (12) - For my card to not be declined.

Over 120 Holiday CardsOver 120 Holiday CardsOver 120 Holiday CardsOver 120 Holiday CardsOver 120 Holiday Cardssent to Vsent to Vsent to Vsent to Vsent to Veterans of theeterans of theeterans of theeterans of theeterans of theArmed FArmed FArmed FArmed FArmed Forcesorcesorcesorcesorces

I n t e r a c tI n t e r a c tI n t e r a c tI n t e r a c tI n t e r a c tC l u bC l u bC l u bC l u bC l u b

Thanks RHS!

SPARTUS SURVEYS

#1. Who is your favorite reindeer? Well, OBVIOUSLY, it is Rudolph, followed by Prancer and Comet.

#2: Dasher is retiring. Name the new kid. Votes for: Stinky, Bacon, Peanuts, Jose, Fidget, Boomer, Theodore, Olaf, Stanley, Ringo, Jingles, Gaser . . . and Milo.

CHATROOM9

Mini-Opinion #4Mini-Opinion #4Mini-Opinion #4Mini-Opinion #4Mini-Opinion #4 CHEF’S CORNER Part 9: Pizza TimeBy Master Chef Joshua Mark Lee

Nothing screams Christmaslike a hot and crispy pan pizza, but ifyou’re not a money tree and only have$l0 in your pocket, what can you get?Well your two options are Pizza Hutor Domino’s. But which option is thebest? That is why I, Master Chef JoshuaMark Lee, have taken it upon myself to try both of thesepizza chains’ pan pizza and to let you know which optionis the best. Welcome to Chef’s Corner Part 9: Pizza Time.

The first stage of this operation was research.Both places offer an online deal where you can order athree-topping large pizza, for 7.99 + tax. The only differ-ence is that Pizza Hut charges a dollar extra for you toupgrade to pan pizza and Domino’s doesn’t, but Domino’span pizza is only available in a 12 inch size compared toPizza Hut’s 14 inch pan pizza.

Pizza Hut A.K.A. “The Hut”Though I was disappointed that I had to spend an

extra dollar just to get their pan pizza, but I was going togive it a shot. I got chicken and meatball as my toppingsrather than my usual sausage and pepperoni, as I wantedto switch it up. I walked into this with an open mind andmediocre expectations. The pizza did meet those medio-cre expectations. The crust was more crunchy than crispy,and the bottom was rather soft. The sauce was oddlysweet, and the chicken was tough and bland. It was anhonest 6/10 for pan pizza. I ate half of it as I was veryhungry and saved the rest for later. The leftovers changeda mediocre experience to a disappointing one: the crusttasted stale yet oddly moist, and the cheese tasted likedried glue. It was a disappointing experience for $9.

Domino’s PizzaAs I said, this pan pizza sacrifices two inches

compared to The Hut, but it’s a buck cheaper, and twoinches isn’t that much. An added bonus with Domino’s intheir three topping deal is that extra cheese, even doublecheese, counts as one topping. To get extra cheese atPizza Hut, it always costs +2 dollars, a deal breakerbecause then my total would be above $l0. So I gotsausage, pepperoni, and double cheese. I picked up mypizza and couldn’t resist eating a slice on the way home. Itwas heavenly. The toppings and cheese went to the edgeand the crust was crispy and delicious in all the rightways. This pan pizza was so tasty that I went through theeffort to eat another slice while driving home with it, thenproceeded to eat another two slices. If you’re on a limitedbudget this holiday season, Domino’s pan pizza is the wayto go. I award it the Master Chef Joshua Mark Lee Seal ofApproval, or as I like to call it, the MCJMLSoA.

In conclusion, someone does in fact out-pizzaThe Hut, Domino’s Pizza. I wish all of you, my fans, aHappy Holiday, and a happy New Year.

What do you regret from 2019?

Sarah Hassan (12) - Wasting my time with toxic people.Jaela Foster Burns (12) - Not participating in morethings.Daniela Magana (12) - Not appreciating things - notlearning from previous mistakes.Steph Hernandez (11) - Running into a celebrity, freezingup, and missing taking a picture.Ana Cervantes (11) - Paying too much attention to thingsthat don’t matter.Ashley Harrison (12) - Speeding tickets.Kyra Savage (12) - Letting other people determine myself-worth.Helena Null (11) - Too many things.Ms. Fehrenbacher (staff) - I try to not to live my life withregrets, but . . . maybe this haircut.Alberto Macias (12) - Eating too much fast food.Paola Ruiz (12) - Dying my hair.Talia Makowski (12) - Nothing. Everything was worth it.

. . . and just a lot of “trusting the wrong people” and “noregrets.”

#1. Favorite holiday song? “All I want for Christmas is You” Other favorites: “Mistletoe,” “Baby it’s

cold outside,” and the classic “Jingle Bells.”

#2: And to put this question to bed - NO, Die Hard is not a Christmas movie (64%)

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The studentsand staff

Thanks RHS!

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By Jenna Mandrelle Adopt a Family is something that RHS has been

participating in for years. It’s not just a schoolwideprogram though, it’s a nationwide program.

Many people throughout the U.S. participate inAdopt a Family, which is where someone can give disadvan-taged children and families gifts around Christmas time.Many families don’t have the ability to spend a lot ofmoney for gifts around the holidays, so this programallows others to help them out and make the holidaysexciting for everyone.

“Adopt a Family is a meaningful way to not onlyspread holiday cheer, but to give back to a family in ourcommunity,” said RHS staff member, Rebecca Finke.Many clubs at RHS are adopting a family and are lookingto give back to the community during this time of theyear.

Anyone can adopt a family. Sometimes the

The MCJROTC Marksmanship Team competedin the River Valley Open Shooting competition inKankakee on 23 November. Individuals placing were:

Shawn Davis - 3rd place with a score of 488 with 8 bullsBenjamin Jewell - 4th place with a score of 460 with 5 bullsAliya Kazmi - 5th place with a score of 460 with 4 bullsAnthony Russo - 6th place with a score of 455 with 4 bullsBrittney Newton - 7th place with a score of 445 with 6 bullsJose Gutierrez - 8th place with a score of 445 with 4 bullsAmelia Vidad - 9th place with a score of 443 with 2 bullsMila Gedzhova - 10th place with a score of 429 with 2 bulls

All of these shooters qualified for the StateChampionships in January 2020.

The MCJROTC Drill Team competed in thePortage Drill Competition at Portage High School,Indiana on 7 December and placed in the following:

Unit Inspection commanded by Cadet Ricardo Alfaro -1stPlace TrophyUnarmed Drill Platoon commanded by Cadet BrittneyNewton - 3rd Place TrophyArmed Drill Platoon commanded by Cadet Amelia Vidad -3rd Place Trophy

Great job during the competition everyone!

News from the RHS MCJROTC

organization will give a list of items,but other times people will have tojust take the recipients age, gender,and interests into consideration andbrainstorm ideas for gifts.

Participating in thisprogram can sprinkle kindnessthrough the holiday season andpromote giving to those who areless fortunate.

Spreading Holiday Goodwill

Gifts and Good CheerGifts and Good CheerGifts and Good CheerGifts and Good CheerGifts and Good Cheerto 15 Fto 15 Fto 15 Fto 15 Fto 15 Families andamilies andamilies andamilies andamilies and40 Children40 Children40 Children40 Children40 Children

The Clubs &The Clubs &The Clubs &The Clubs &The Clubs &Activities ofActivities ofActivities ofActivities ofActivities ofRHSRHSRHSRHSRHS

Thanks RHS!

SO LONG 201911

By Michelle Mendoza The decade definitely ended with a bang as

2019 had iconic moments that those living in it willremember forever. To wrap up the year, here’s a list of thetop pop culture events from this year that you cannotforget.

Big Moments: Two Instagram records were made thisyear. We had the world breaking egg that beat KylieJenner in having the most liked photo, and JenniferAniston finally joined the app and became the fastest userto gain a million followers.

One joke in Avengers: Endgame became popularthis year (especially with the girls) as Captain America’sbehind was acknowledged. Chris Evans rocked the well-appreciated America’s “backside.”

Movies: We had throwbacks such as the renewedAladdin and Lion King. We also had Toy Story 4, It Chapter 2,Good Boys, Spider-Man:Far From Home, Avengers: Endgame,and lastly, Joker.

Trends: This year was all about bringing old onesback. Scrunchies made a huge comeback as well as hairclips and bangs. Others included friendship bracelets,glossy lips, biker shorts, and (a big one) denim.

Songs: Many started listening to classic love songs(we can thank Tik Tok for introducing Paul Anka to manyyoung girls). However, other modern songs included: OldTown Road, Bad Guy, 7 Rings, Suge, La Cancion, Sucker, Highest inthe Room, Ransom, Senorita, Circles, 223’s, and Truth Hurts.Many of these were written by new artists that we wereintroduced to this year including Lizzo, Da Baby, Lil NasX, Jonas Brothers (again), Summer Walker, and ofcourse, Megan Thee Stallion.

Challenges: The top five of the year started as earlyas January with the Bird Box challenge. Following thiswere the vacuum/trash bag challenge, the bottle capchallenge, attempting to put a pen through a fidgetspinner, and finally, Tik Tok dances.

Sayings: Phrases this year were pretty limited. Wehave the annoying sayings that died down as soon as theywere associated with VSCO girls, (“sksksksk” and “And Ioop-”). Then we had those that were associated with girlswho claim they lived a “hot girl summer” that includedany variation of the word “period.” And finally, to avoidvulgar language in the school newspaper, the last one isthe simple “yessir.”

Celebrity Drama: R. Kelly had a tremendousfallout this year and was full of drama. Tati Westbrookand James Charles also had a public feud. Lori Loughlin,the famous Aunt Becky, was caught up in a crime and isheading for jail, and finally Jordyn Woods and KylieJenner had a best friend breakup.

Who We Lost: We lost actors Cameron Boyce andLuke Perry. We also lost icons Allen Thicke and GrumpyCat.

Memes: Countless amounts of memes could havemade this list. But when it came down to popularity (andappropriateness for the sake of this paper), it came downto just these:

* “Some of y’all__________ and it shows”* Anything with Spongebob* “Ahh say less”* Joe and Yuri* Kylie Jenner’s “Rise and Shine”* How Boys Do Things vs. Men* Anything with MinecraftAnd with that the year comes to an end. Hope it was

a good one for all of you. If not, it’s up to you to make thenext one better. Good luck.

The Highs and Lows of Another Year Gone By

The SPARTUS 2019Holiday Cover Contest

Okay all you creative people, this ones for you. Thechallenge - design a holiday cover for the SPARTUS. Itcan be pictures, sayings, or a combination of both. It canbe simple, or as intricate as you would like. It should becolorful. The question simply is - as 2019 comes to a close,what message would you like to send to our readers?

The rules are also simple: Using the back page ofthis issue, create your original cover. Then sign thebottom, put your 3rd HOUR CLASSROOM after yourname (ex: Fionna Hughes (68)), and cut the page offalong the dotted line. Then put your cover in the gift boxoutside room 42 before 3rd HOUR on Tuesday.

The SPARTUS staff will select the winner and ourEditors will deliver a $25 Chili’s Gift Card to the winner’sroom. Have fun - eat free food.

Good luck to all andHappy Holidays from the SPARTUS!

Romeoville High School

SPARTUSSPARTUSSPARTUSSPARTUSSPARTUSDecember, 2019 Vol. 56: #3December, 2019 Vol. 56: #3December, 2019 Vol. 56: #3December, 2019 Vol. 56: #3December, 2019 Vol. 56: #3 Proud to be SpartansProud to be SpartansProud to be SpartansProud to be SpartansProud to be Spartans

HAPPY HOLIDAYS from: