Adobe Acrobat PDF - 3.5 MB - Itasca Public School District 10

VOLUME 13, NUMBER 1
OCTOBER 2009: WELCOME BACK ISSUE
WWW.THECHARGER.ORG
Witamy! Trip to Poland for Itasca Seniors
BY BRIEANN S
Every year Peacock Middle School hosts
the Senior Citizen Luncheon for the seniors
and School Administrators of Itasca. This
year it is on Friday, October 16th, 2009.
Family and Consumer Science teacher, Ms.
Ahn expects over one hundred people to
come and enjoy this wonderful meal.
The theme of the luncheon is Poland
because a lot of students in Peacock are
Polish. The lucky first quarter class of Family
and Consumer Science (FACS) makes the food
and decorations. This year the menu includes
Bigos (a meat stew), canapes, rye bread, and
kolaczki. The beverages are tea and regular
or decaf coffee. The mouthwatering aromas
have been filling our halls for weeks.
Usually before the FACS class starts
cooking, some of the students go on a field
trip to the local grocery stores to get supplies
for the luncheon. This year they were not able
continued on p. 2
Inside
Firefighters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
New Student Teacher . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Peer Mediators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Estrada and Internet Safety . . . . . . . 4
New Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Opinion/Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Halloween Story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Welcome 6th Graders! . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Games Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Tech Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Character Counts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Dear Amy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
New Dog Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
School Scoop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Charger Challenge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Adding bacon to the pot, Faustino M helps Kaylie C cook up a batch of Bigos (Hunters' Stew), the main
dish for the luncheon. Students will also serve canapes and kolaczki to over 100 guests.
Books! Books! Books!
BY LAUREN O
This year the The Parent/Teachers
Organization (PTO) Book Fair was held on
Thursday, September 3. With lots of sales
to both kids and parents, they earned more
than $1800.
The PTO doesn't have definite plans
for how they are going to use the money
yet, but it will be for school-related items.
When teachers need something special for
their classrooms – a piece of equipment,
funding for a project, a new resource – that
they wouldn't otherwise be able to afford, the
PTO gives them the money for it. They also
want us to read more because it helps our
creativity, imagination and vocabulary.
The next book fair will be in the spring,
probably May. It will be "Buy One, Get One
Free" and have different selections of books
than the last fair.
Jonny D gets all excited about the many selections
at the PTO Book Fair.
2
THE CHARGER: WELCOME BACK ISSUE
OCTOBER 2009
Witamy!
continued from p. 1
to go because of a precautionary lockdown. Everyone
was disappointed, but have been enjoying making all
of the food. Our two class managers, Jessica Wcislo
and Natalie Fuglewicz are helping Ms. Ahn keep the
luncheon running smoothly.
There has also been a lot of help from other people.
Ms. Smith’s 6th grade I.T. classes made maps of Poland
for a decorative wall hanging. Mrs. DiCristina’s sixth
grade classes made mobiles for over the tables. The Craft
Club, under Mrs. Tinson's direction, helped the FACS
students make the sparkly egg refrigerator magnets for
guest favors. Other art classes and advisories also have
done a lot to help with the luncheon. For entertaining
the guests, the choir will be singing three Polish songs
and dancers will be performing a Polish routine.
There will be dancing, singing, eating and good times.
Hope to see you there!
Clockwise from above: Natalie Fuglewicz
and Angelica DiPrizio make Bigos,
Caitlin Capone cuts onions,
Paola Chavez slices Polish
sausage, egg favors get
decorated, Chris Pietka
and Michael Rugnone
clean up.
Itasca Firefighters: 100 Years of Service
BY RILEY S.
On Saturday, September 12, the Itasca
Fire Protection District celebrated 100 years
of service to the Village with a parade through
town. Fire Chief Jim MacArthur led the way
to honor his crew and their hard work to
protect us. He has been Chief of Itasca for
6 years. Before that, he was Fire Chief in Elk
Grove Village for 11 years.
Chief MacArthur is very proud of his
men and had quite a bit to say about his work
and the station. Currently there are 26 fulltime firefighters and 9 who work part-time.
They are always ready to go to nearby towns
like Roselle and Wood Dale as an automatic
aid for bigger fires.
Chief MacArther doesn’t go out on
every call, just the larger fires. He said that
the worst fire he ever worked was a Christmas
tree fire in a Roselle house. A little boy died
in that fire.
Chief McArthur said, “The best part
about my job is helping people whenever
they need our help.”
So thanks to Chief McArthur and to
all the firefighters for keeping the Village of
Itasca and our neighbors safe.
Managing Editor • Modesta B
Advertising Manager • Brieann S
Circulation Manager • Andreja M
News Writers • Riley S, Lauren O, Kelsey
R
Feature Writers • Modesta B
Opinion/Editorial • Carli G
Entertainment • Jordan Z
Games Corner • Kyle Z
Tech Tips • Ryan P
Sports • Brieann S, Loretta L
Photographers & Artists • Skye P, Sequoia W-V, Andreja M Adrian S, Jenna
L, Sam G, Grant W, Abel G, Brittany A,
Alexander G
Advisor • Ms. Smith
The Charger is published five times a year by Peacock
Middle School, located at 301 E. North Street, Itasca,
IL 60143.
Phone: (630)773-0335
E-mail: staff@thecharger.org
Web: http://thecharger.org
Write the editorial board with questions or comments.
Correspondence must be signed.
OCTOBER 2009
THE CHARGER: WELCOME BACK ISSUE
Teachers Learn
How to Get a Little Help from Your Friends
BY RILEY S.
B Y N ATA L I E F
Ms. Wicklund is the new eighth grade
student teacher working with Mrs. Leikin.
She has a Master’s degree in education and
wants to teach Language Arts because she
loves reading and writing and wants other
students to love it too. There is more of an
opportunity in middle or high school to teach
her favorite subject.
She graduated from Northern Illinois
University and is now attending Roosevelt
University. Ms. Wicklund is a very courageous
student teacher. We are lucky to have her.
3
Have you ever wondered what the words sign a contract that they will both follow.
“Peer Mediation” mean, or what happens
Peer Mediation is a fun and easy way
when you go to Peer Mediation?
to find a solution to your problems. So ask
Peer Mediation is a very helpful way Mrs. Gornik or any teacher and come to Peer
to find the right path out of your conflicts Mediation when you need to get a little help
with other students without spreading the from your friends – with your friends!
word around school. For
example, you are in an
argument with a friend
and you are having trouble
getting along. What do you
do? You ask to go to Peer
Mediation!
You go in a room
with two other peer
mediators and talk about
your situation. Normally,
the meeting would take
place during lunch. After
talking and discussing the
problem, we all try to find Your Peer Mediators: front, Andrew T; row 2, left to right, Shannon
one agreement. When B, Jordan Z, Natalie F, and Michaella B; row 3, left to right, Victoria
both of the people have K, Carli G, Aaron S, Marcus L, Brian B, Quin K and Nick D. Not
decided what's the right shown, Edmond H.
thing to do, then they will
Itasca Haunted House
-A-ACK!!
A
B
It’s
Come to the Itasca Park District Rec Center
for a SCARY good time!!
Friday October 23rd from 7-10 pm
and Saturday October 24th from 6-10 pm
Fee: $5
Want to volunteer?
Call Susan at 630/773-2257
4
THE CHARGER: WELCOME BACK ISSUE
Estrada Promotes Internet Safety
Erik Estrada, co-star of
the popular CHiPs television
show (1977-83), has been
traveling around the country
speaking to parents, teachers,
and school administrators
about keeping kids safe when
they use the Internet. He
and Dr. Gary Reynolds,
Executive Director of Safe
Surfing Foundation, came
to Peacock on Thursday,
October 8, to give a
impressive and informative
presentation on what can
happen when kids go on-line
and how to protect them from
cyber predators.
Pictured clockwise from
lower left are Dr. Reynolds,
Mrs. Pawinski (school board
member), Erik Estrada,
Mr. Loest, Dr. Tornatore.
Welcome to District #10
BY KELSEY R.
OCTOBER 2009
Opinion Essay
Obama Speaks
BY CARLI G.
So everyone knows about Obama’s
speech to students on September 9, right?
Of course you do! Everyone was forced to
watch it and think about their opinions.
I personally thought that he delivered a
great and touching message, but the whole
process was kind of over exaggerated. I agree
that we should’ve watched it, but having us
talk about it for days and days before wasn’t
the best approach from the teachers, in my
opinion. It gave us way too high expectations
for the speech that turned out to be about 10
minutes long.
To me, it wasn’t any different than a
teacher or a parent giving us the same speech.
It went in one ear and out the other. People
said how they thought it was great that he was
[No] lasting impression
Most Peacock students come right from Franzen, but a few are new to District #10. We asked a couple
of them how they liked the change. Courtney, who came from Ridge Circle School in Streamwood, is really
enjoying choir, loves sports, and is looking forward to showing how great a friend she can be. Joey came from
Spring Hill School in Roselle. He has joined the Craft Club, the Newspaper, and is looking forward to
Chess Club but thinks there's too much homework.
Left to right, Row 1: Danielle Velinske, Mark Molenkamp, Alejandro Lemus, Esteban DeHaro.
Row 2: Rob Cortes (in chair), Joey Gonzales, Courtney Kruger, Alexandria Carbonara, Joel Escalante.
Row 3: Christian O'Shana, Devin Stonewall, Matt Molenkamp.
addressing the students, and I appreciate that
he interrupted his busy schedule to make time
for the kids who are so commonly forgotten.
I doubt, however, that it made any lasting
impression on many. I also think it’s kind
of ridiculous that kindergarteners [in other
sschools] were obliged to watch it. It’s not
like they are going to get half of what he’s
saying.
In the end I thought it just made people
think President Obama was a great guy.
OCTOBER 2009
THE CHARGER: WELCOME BACK ISSUE
5
The Trick-or-Treat Tradition Told
B Y M O D E S TA B .
Did you know Irish and Scottish
immigrants carried versions of the tradition
of Trick-or-Treating to North America in
the nineteenth century? Most of you know
Halloween as a fun holiday to dress up and
ask for candy, but it started out as something
completely different.
Halloween was first called “Samhain”.
Samhain was a part of the Gaelic culture
(Irish, Scottish, Breton, etc.). They believed
the worlds of the dead came to life on this
day. The Gaelics did not want the dead spirits
Together
we can
shape
the
future
of
today’s
students.
to come back to life and haunt them, so they
wore costumes to mock the dead and scare
them.
Trick-or-Treating was established for
kids to get candy or they could “trick” or
threaten the home owner if they didn't give
them any.
This is very similar to the Wassail
tradition that people from England celebrate
at Christmas. During Wassail, carolers go door
to door and sing in return for cookies and
milk or other treats.
Nowadays, Halloween is a VERY
popular holiday. Kids from babies up to
high schoolers go around the neighborhood
asking for candy.
Several years ago some people thought
it was funny to give out treats that hurt kids
– like razors or needles in apples or candy
with drugs in it. Since then parents have been
more careful with where their kids go and
Halloween parties are more popular than ever.
What a shame to make such a great tradition
into something that we have to be afraid of.
WE ARE PROUD TO
SUPPORT
PEACOCK MIDDLE
SCHOOL
6
th
THE CHARGER: WELCOME BACK ISSUE
6 grade: How is it so far?
Sammi wants to tell us, “I love all my
teachers!” She likes B-days and wants to be
in the play.
BY RILEY S. & LAUREN O.
Out from Franzen and into Peacock!
Were you scared?! Were you excited?! We
caught up with a few 6th graders to see how
their year has been going.
Brooke said she likes A-days, wants to
join the play, and loves 6th grade so far.
Dylan said he likes A-days, wanted to run
in cross country, and did community service
at a hospital.
Skye said she likes A-days, loves photo
club, and wants to do community service at
the park district.
Timmy said he likes A-days, he really
wants to join the basketball team, and likes
6th grade so far.
Anthony said he likes A-days, wants to
do community service at the nature center,
and wants to work at the school store for
fun.
Shannon said she likes B-days, helped
out at a marathon for community service,
and loves cooking club.
Jenna said she likes B-days, loves 6
grade, and wants to play volleyball.
OCTOBER 2009
th
Riley said, “I love being in the newspaper
club!” She was worried about not getting to
class on time, likes A-days, and wants to work
at the nature center.
Frank said he likes A-days and likes 6th
grade.
Julia said she likes switching classes, wants
to do the talent show, and likes A-days.
Mathew said he likes switching classes
and he's going to volunteer teaching kids
for community service.
OCTOBER 2009
THE CHARGER: WELCOME BACK ISSUE
7
Advice to 6th Graders
REPRINTED FROM JUNE 2009 6TH GRADE
TEAM NEWSLETTER
• Remember, everyone either is going into middle school,
will be going into middle school, or has been through
middle school. So, you're never alone! Always ask for
help if you need it.
Kelsey R
•
Don't worry about getting lost. It's not that big of a
school and, trust me, you will know where all your
classes are.
Kayla P
•
Lighten your backpack! Pack your morning books, then
at lunch get your afternoon books.
Grant Willy
•
Keep your schedule with you.
• Join the school teams.
Nicole W
Giovanni C
• Don't wait 'til the last minute to study for tests
or do projects. Wash your gym uniform every
Friday. They can start to stink!
Breezy E
s
l
a
r
o
l
F
KT
& Gifts
• Write down your combination right away!
Francesca Catalano
• Sixth Grade is a blast!
Katelyn F
• Don't worry about coming to Peacock! Opening
lockers, getting to class on time, and homework
are nothing to worry about because all the
teachers help you along the way.
Mark B
• If you are having problems with anything, go
see the counselor or a peer mediator.
Nick D
• Passing period is three minutes. That's plenty of
time.
Claudia D
• All of the teachers I've met are very nice, caring,
helpful, and respectful. I hope you'll enjoy
Peacock as much as I do!
Reilly H
• Bring your ID and flash drive with you
everywhere. It will pay off.
Margaret M
• Start out your year well and school will be a
breeze!
Sean T
• In Math always take notes on what's on
the board. In Social Studies do the graphic
organizer on the main ideas.
Alec T
• Do homework on the day you get it and
NEVER forget to write it down in your
assignment notebook!
Monika S
• Try out for the sports and other activities.
Rachel C
Sometimes, "No Reason . . ."
is the BEST reason
to send fl owers!
Custom Floral Arrangements
and Gift Baskets
419 W. Irving Park Rd.
Itasca, Illinois 60143
Phone: (60) 773‐0570
Fax: (630) 773‐0594
Kathy Tindell, Owner/Designer
8
THE CHARGER: WELCOME BACK ISSUE
Count on These Kids
Sometimes you just need a friend, or
a good citizen, or a little respect to make
your day better. Our Character Counts
program recognizes kids that step up to
the plate and do the right thing. Categories
include: Trustworthiness, Citizenship, Caring,
Fairness, Responsibility, and Respect.
Below, Row 1, left to right: Riley Skalski,
Skye Palumbo, Sarah Czuma, and Diana
Perillo. Row 2: Kiki Harrison, Margaret
Murphy, Kevin Gordon, Modesta Bazyte,
Andrianna Boracci-Martin, and Piotr Lada.
OCTOBER 2009
Tech Tips: OpenOffice
B Y RYA N P.
Naturally Speaking 9
As a substitute for typing on a keyboard,
people can now update their PC (personal
computer) with a software called Naturally
Speaking 9. With this program you dictate the
text and automatically enter words into the
PC by speaking into a microphone. Gradually
your computer starts to recognize your voice
as you speak.
Naturally Speaking 9 comes programmed
with over a million words. It (and other
programs like it) functions with 90 to 95
percent accuracy, meaning it will write 9 in
10 words correctly. You may still need spell
check for your Language Arts assignments.
Phantom Lapboard
This newly designed product has a laser
mouse and wireless keyboard that rotates 360
degrees for right- or left-handers. Phantom
Entertainment created the Phantom Lapboard
with an ergonomic design, one-touch features,
and a wireless laser mouse.
As if the Phantom keyboard couldn’t
get any better, it inclines on a 22-degree
angle and has a hard surface for the mouse
to work on. This updated technology is made
to work with Playstation 3, specific games, and
business software.
Phantom Lapboard
Games Corner
BY KYLE Z.
G.I. Joe: Rise of the Cobra
“G.I. Joe: Rise of the Cobra” is about soldiers called G.I. Joes who are trying to stop the villains called the Cobras from doing
illegal stuff with these things called nanomites. What I liked about the game were the fighting parts, driving the vehicles, and all the
missions. Some things I didn’t like about the game were how to drive the vehicles – because they were difficult to drive. I think people
who like action and fighting should rent this game instead of buy it.
I gave the game 4.5 stars out of 5, however, IGN Entertainment (through Gamespot.com) only rated this game 2.7 out 5 stars.
This was mostly because the reviewer grew up in the 80s and played with the action figures when he was a kid. He only kind of liked
the movie and found the game repetitive and boring after a while. Electronic Arts produced this version of the game for PS2, PS3,
XBOX 360, PSP, Wii, DS, and IP. You can also see the movie inspired by this game, but you'll have to go with your parents because,
even though the game is rated teen, the movie is rated R.
G.I. Joe: Rise of the Cobra
Reviewer Rating
4.5
Gamespot Rating
2.7
Maturity Rating
T
RP= Rating Pending, E= Early Childhood, E=Everyone, E10+ = 10 and up, T = Teen, M = Mature, * = Online interactions not rated
OCTOBER 2009
THE CHARGER: WELCOME BACK ISSUE
Ask Amy
BY AMY D.
Dear Amy: I am 11 and about to enter
middle school.
There is a big problem: I am scared to
death of middle school!
I have talked to my family and friends,
but nothing the have
said helps at all. I am
not afraid of bullying,
but its everything
else.
I’m
worried
about getting up
early, doing all the
homework
and
having alternating
schedules.
It’s all so scary.
Even actual middle
school students, who
tell me how fun it is,
dose not help.
Time is running
out. Please help me,
Amy. No one else
can.
-Eleven and Scared
Dear Scared: I’ve started and restarted so
many new things that I know this butterflyin-the-gut feeling very well.
Starting at a new school (or job) is almost
Book Review
Twilight Series: Eclipse
BY JORDAN Z.
In Eclipse, Edward Cullen is finally
back in Forks, Washington and Bella Swan
couldn’t be happier. Her only worry is about
the sadistic vampire named Victoria that is
intent on her death.
When a series of killings threaten to put
Seattle in the top spot on the national crime
list, the Cullens figure out that it is an army of
newborn vampires wreaking havoc on the city.
Who created these monsters? Why are they
so close to Forks? The Cullens have to stop
them before the Volturi show up and their
secret is revealed to the natural world.
the
best!
always scary, but what do I do: I tell myself
“All I have to do is show up.” Then I tell
myself, “I just have to make it until lunch.”
Then I think, “The end of the day isn’t too
far off. I know I can make it.”
What I’m saying is that this will be easier
if you take it in stages. Once you figure out
where your locker and the bathroom are,
you’ll be well on
your way.
Middle school
teachers know how
kids feel during that
first week of school.
That’s why they make
sure every student
knows where and
what to do.
Find a buddy
that first day. Going
thought the process
with another student
who also has question
and might also be
a little nervous will
help both of you.
A book you
might find helpful is,” Too Old for This,
Too Young for That: Your survival Guide
for the Middle-School Years”, by Harriet S.
Mosatche and Karen Unger (2005, Free Spirit
Publishing)
Printed with permission by Amy Dickinson,
Chicago Tribune
9
Off the Shelf
Novel News from the Itasca
Community Library
By Jackie Stork
The Itasca Community Library is pleased
to have a spot in the Charger in which to
recommend great books and to let you in on
any upcoming library activities for teens.
Back to School
Do you know how many great resources
we have at the library to help you in the new
school year? Our Homework Shelf houses
textbooks from Peacock. So if you forget
your book at school, come to the library and
make copies of the pages you need. The Young
Adult Space provides tables and comfortable
seating where you can study or just relax and
read.
Study carrels are perfect for when you
need to concentrate for your next test, or a
group study room is available for when
you and your classmates are working on a
project. Internet stations allow you to surf
the internet (with parental permission and a
library card), but they are also equipped with
Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, so
you can type up papers or create presentations.
All this is in addition to the books, magazines,
DVDs, CDs, CD-ROMs and more you can
check out everyday!
Program Alert!
Hardwear Jewelry (Gr. 7-12)
Thurs., November 5 @ 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Did you know that you can make jewelry
entirely from inexpensive items from a
hardware store? Join us as we turn nuts,
bolts and other odds and ends into beautiful
jewelry! Registration is required.
Sci-Fi & Sundaes (Gr. 6-10)
Mon., November 30 @ 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Come hear about some cool new teen sci-fi
books, share your favorites with others, and
make an ice cream sundae. Please bring
one of your favorite sci-fi titles to share
with others in the group. Registration is
required.
Twitter
Teens, follow us on Twitter! The Itasca
Community Library now has a Twitter
account. You can check out our tweets to
find out what’s happening at the library
(www.twitter.com/ItascaLibraryYA).
We also post about books, contests and
more! You can even check out what YA
authors we are following. Twitter is a place
online where you can virtually stay in touch
with people in real-time by posting quick
statements about what you’re up to.
10
THE CHARGER: WELCOME BACK ISSUE
What You Need
Did your best pen just run away with
your last pencil? Has your eraser been
rubbed out? In a bind for a binder? Stop
by the School Store, run by the Student
Council. They have all the supplies you so
desperately need.
OCTOBER 2009
A Primo Place to Pamper your Puppies (and Kitties)
B Y D I A N A P.
Erasers, pens, shirts;
students line up to get
what they need.
Does your dog or cat need a haircut
or nail trim? Kathy Campagna is happy to
announce that The Itasca Pet Groomers is
now open and is ready to take on any dog or
cat. They are located at 109 W. Orchard St.,
across from the train station.
These groomers know how to give your
pet a haircut using the gentlest touch. Go
and check out what is in store for these little
animals!
Give your dog or cat a new look and keep
those tails a-wagging.
Helen's Delicatessen
Hours:
Monday – Friday 8:30 - 8:00
Saturday 8:30 – 6:00
Sunday 8:30 – 2:00
Amazing selection of
Polish canned/jarred/
packaged foods, Lots
of great Polish meats
Jim L., Elk Grove
272 W. Irving Park Rd.
Wood Dale, IL 60191
Tel: (630) 766-2211
Fax: (630) 766-2505
This place is way cool!
Tony C., Los Angeles
When one craves
homemade potato
pancakes, a variety of
pierogi’s and blintzes,
fresh rye and REAL
Krakus ham, a round
trip of 180 miles is
bupkus baby.
Pamela B., Darien WI
OCTOBER 2009
THE CHARGER: WELCOME BACK ISSUE
11
Franzen Mobiles Open to Students
New Principal at Franzen
The Franzen mobile classrooms are finished! Both students and
teachers are enjoying all the space. Top, everyone helps at the
ribbon cutting ceremony on August 17. Left, Mr. Whitney, the
new art teacher, gets supplies ready for students. Above, Mrs.
Kozakis tries out her musical equipment in her new room. No
more carts!
Mettalic Man
BY ALEXANDER G
When Dr. Medwick retired last year,
Franzen needed a new prinicipal. So welcome
to Mr. Murphy. He's excited to join Franzen
and has had the opportunity to meet all the
teachers and administrators in the district.
"[They have] made me aware of how devoted
the school community is to ensuring that we
provide the best for all children in this phase
of their educational career. I truly look
forward to this opportunity to serve and
support this extremely committed school
community."
Mr. Murphy lives in Streamwood with his
wife and three daughters: Avery, Peyton, and
Brynn. He likes to spend time with his family,
go golfing, play sports, attend baseball games
(Go Cubs!), and work in his yard.
He started as an elementary teacher
in Bloomington, IL and was the assistant
principal at Tripp Elementary in Buffalo
Grove, IL for the past three years. Mr. Murphy
says, "It is great to be here at Franzen School
and to fly with the Falcons!"
Charger Challenge
The Charger Challenge is a brain
teaser, a close-up photograph of
something in or around the school.
The first two people to correctly
identify it and tell Ms. Smith will
receive a prize. Good Luck!
What’s this a picture of ? Be specific.
12
THE CHARGER: WELCOME BACK ISSUE
OCTOBER 2009
Cross Country Finishes Another Great Season
BY BRIEANN S.
This year our cross-country team was
phenomenal. All of the coaches think that
there was good effort and eager participation
by all of the runners. Fewer people joined this
year, but they are better grouped by age.
During practice the runners did sprints,
Indian runs, and either timed runs (20 min
runs) or distance runs (1.3 to 2 miles). Indian
runs are where you are in a group of about
five people and you run in a line behind the
first person. The last person eventually sprints
to the front and so on. They also stretch and
talk about running.
“Rest when you die," Mr. Crockett always
said. The runners were definitely trying to
follow that advice. Mr. Crockett and Mr.
Larsen often ran with the runners and were
giving their best effort too.
They went to four meets in September
and October. One of those, held on
September 15, was our home meet. It was
held at the Springbrook Nature Center with
the start and finish lines behind the Municipal
Building.
Mr. Larsen said his favorite part of
coaching is watching the runners’ hard work
pay off. All of the cross country coaches
thought we had a good chance at numerous
banners. Hopefully, with this effort and
dedication in cross-country and other
Peacock sports, we will add more banners
to our wall!
Run from the Cops
A D A P T E D B Y L O R E T TA L .
More than 150 people participated in the
3rd annual "Run from the Cops" 5K run/walk
at Usher Park to benefit Salute Inc. At 8:00
am on Saturday, August 29, the "criminals"
ran off trying their best to flee from members
of the Itasca Police Department with police
officer Bill Webster leading the way.
Chief Scott Heher or Deputy Chief
Bob O'Connor gave out "captured" stickers
to those they passed by – except Steve
Ellenbecker, who came in first place. Some
runners wore black-and-white striped shirts
to go with the theme and one man even wore
an orange prison jumpsuit! Many joined in
the fun and local veterans greeted them at
Cross-Country Conference Scores
6th grade girls: 3rd place; Lily N.(9th),
Kelly H. (10th), Katie C. (11th),
Savanna N. (12th)
7th and 8th grade girls: 6th place; Erika
M.(12th)
6th and 7th grade boys: 5th place; Brian B.
(3rd)
Counterclockwise from
above: Marena G,
Markus L and Tommy
M lead the way across the
boardwalk in the Nature
Center, Lily N, Kelly
H, Gwen L, Summer P,
Coach Larsen, 8th grade
boys race start, Coaches
Behrendt and Crockett
bring Mr. Anderson for
support.
8th grade boys: 6th place; Ryan M.8th)
Salute Inc. was originally
started in 2003 by an Arlington
Heights couple. They wanted
to recognize the support they
had received during a 13-month
deployment overseas. Last year,
Salute Inc. was able to donate
$365,000 to help military
families. The annual Memorial
Day run held in Arlington
Front and center, Ryan M leads off in the "Run from the Cops"
Heights will have 125 people
race. He came in first for the 14 and under category.
run in the Chicago Marathon
this year. Some of Saturday's
the finish line for the good cause.
race
participants
also signed up to join this
There was also a fun Doughnut Dash
Marathon
team.
held for the kids. Both races were followed by
Congratulations to the people who ran
a free pancake breakfast that fed more than
in
the
Chicago Marathon and thanks to the
350 people. It was sponsored by the police,
Itasca
Police,
Salute Inc., all the runners, and
the Park District, Lions Club and Knights of
everyone
else
who participated!
Columbus.