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| News October 2002, Volume 6, No. 2 |
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Questions? Comments?
Tell us what you think!
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By Amy E.
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| Robert Gosanko and Harry Volkman of the VFW participated in the September 11th Candlelight Vigil in Usher Park. (photo by Amy E.) |
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On the first anniversary of the September 11th attacks, a very large crowd of people, many from Itasca and some from nearby towns, gathered in Usher Park at 7:30 p.m. Many different people made speeches that night.
The service began with Boy Scout Troop 409 distributing candles to everyone.
First to speak was Alva J. Kreutzer, Itasca's Character Counts Coordinator.
Shortly after, the North DuPage Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) presented the flags and played the bagpipes.
The crowd then recited the Pledge of Allegiance and sang the National Anthem led by resident Carl Presto, with Carl Presto Jr. playing bagpipes and Robert Haney playing drums.
Mayor Gigi Gruber reflected on the events of September 11th.
The Itasca fire chaplain, Steven Fox, and police chief, Mike McDonald, spoke, followed by a moment of silence and the singing of Amazing Grace.
The color guard then retired the flags, but before they left, Ken Palicki of the VFW requested that the crowd recite the Pledge of Allegiance a second time because of how much the pledge meant to him.
The audience joined him, but recited the pledge with much more feeling this time. The flag was then retired and the VFW exited.
The vigil ended with a very exciting moment when the audience spontaneously broke out in God Bless America.
Throughout the ceremony, music was played from the "United We Stand" CD created by the students of Itasca.
Itasca resident, Alice Beine said, "The memorial is very sad and heartbreaking, and very emotional. It seems to make you think you're doing what you can do for the ones who have passed away."
Major Gruber commented, "It's a time for rebuilding for the nation. It's a time for recovery and reflection. It's a time for people to make peace within themselves, to come to terms with what happened and to be able to move forward with what they might not have accepted before."
Deputy Chief Police Rusty Votava, said, "This day has changed the way we all think and live and is something that will be with us forever. Everyone should deal with their feelings in whatever way they can."
All the residents interviewed agreed that this year's Candlelight Vigil was a moving event that helped to bring people closer together.
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It was a sad day for Peacock Middle School
By Kyle P.
Sports editor
This year's eighth grade trip to the state capital, Springfield, did not go smoothly. Altogether, there were about sixty-five hours worth of detentions and suspensions handed out in the wake of the trip.
One hundred and ten students attended and at least ten were punished for actions ranging from lack of respect for the bus drivers and tour guides to bad behavior at certain sites.
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Because of the misbehavior, the eighth grade class lost all of their privileges to go on other field trips and attend dances. |
To gain those privileges back, the eighth graders have signed a letter of apology that has been sent to Capitol officials and staff, (see Op-Ed, pages 8-9).
Student council president and vice president Kaitlyn L. and Shannon P. came up with the idea for the apology, and drafted the letter for their classmates to sign.
In addition, every eighth grade student had to submit to Dr. Nickisch a formal account of their behavior on September 13, 2002, apologizing if necessary.
Despite the problems, the eighth graders did tour Springfield and see the historical and governmental sites.
Their day started at 6:00 A.M., when their bus left Peacock.
During a quick rest stop about two hours into the trip, a student was injured in a playground accident.
The first tourist site visited was New Salem Village near Springfield. New Salem shows what a village looked like in the days of Illinois' most famous citizen, Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865).
Next, the students headed to Springfield. In Springfield, they visited Abraham Lincoln's Tomb, the new and old State Capitol Buildings, Lincoln's Home, The Vietnam and Korean War Memorials, and of course the gift shops.
The last stop was Old Country Buffet, where the students had dinner and soon after proceeded back home.
Most of the students had a great time on the trip, but some were unaware of the consequences they would have to face on Monday morning.
Unfortunately, only the bad behaviors were noticed. Many people were very upset about the decisions that were made upon the punishments given.
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Council makes changes that affect students
By Michelle M.
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| Student council president, Kaitlyn L. and vice-president Shannon P. conduct a student council meeting. (photo by Michelle M.) |
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As far as dances are concerned, they would like to hire a D.J. who plays the music that the students like. They also would like to have themes for the dances.
Many students and teachers complain about how the pep rallies need more spunk and excitement. Kaitlyn and Shannon would like to improve them by having the whole student council help with decorations.
They would also like to get more participation from the student body. They have even suggested throwing beach balls around in the crowd to make things a little more exciting.
When interviewed, Kaitlyn and Shannon commented, "We would like to have better hot lunches with tastier food, and also have the cafeteria decorated to make it look cooler. During the month we would also like to include blizzard days."
The officers added that they plan to have more spirit days during the month as well.
The also said that they would like to get students involved in fund raising projects that are good for the community.
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Students are now allowed to chew gum in all but restricted areas, such as the gym. |
They will also be allowed to have water bottles sold by the student council on their desks.
More ideas will come to mind during student council meetings. If students have any other ideas, they should talk to Kaitlyn and Shannon firstthey want to hear your suggestions.
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Mrs. Laughlin counsels the council
New advisor for student council
By Jessica L.
Peacock has a new student council advisor, sixth grade English teacher, Mrs. Laughlin.
Seventh grade social studies teacher, Mr. Peel, who had served as the council's advisor for many years, resigned at the end of last year.
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Mrs. Laughlin hopes that the student council will become active in many areas of operation. |
"The student council has some outstanding officers this year," said Mrs. Laughlin, "I think that together we can make a difference."
Dr. Nickisch commented that he would like the student council to become more active in the governing of the school.
Student council president and vice president, Kaitlyn L. and Shannon P., are attending the meetings of the faculty leadership council this year. They will be offering their opinions and the opinions of the students at Peacock on various issues.
Mrs. Laughlin commented, "I would like to see Kaitlyn and Shannon become participating members of the leadership council. I think they will listen to the student body and be fair to everyone here at Peacock."
Mrs. Laughlin hopes that the student council will become active in many areas of operation.
She also stated, "We hope to have a positive effect on the entire Itasca community."
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Peer mediators are here to help
By Steve G.
News editor
With the new school year, there are four new peer mediators along with the original eight: eighth graders Dave K., Kaitlyn L., Andrew K., Nicole D., Lara P., Suzie S., Danny R., and Steve G.; seventh graders Derek S., Nick P., Claire Z., Jessica D.
Kaitlyn L. explained that "peer mediators resolve conflicts. I'm a peer mediator because I like resolving problems and helping people. Since I'm a mediator I can't get in fights, and I also have to set an example. I do enjoy being a mediator because it's a lot of fun."
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The mediators’ training includes a whole day of listening, asking questions, and role-playing short stories and afterwards mediating them. |
The mediators' training includes a whole day of listening, asking questions, and role-playing short stories and afterwards mediating them.
Other students, Dr. West, teachers, and Dr. Nickisch can refer students to mediation. A typical mediation is between two or more arguing students and two mediators.
Each person tells his side of the story and they both think of a solution to the problem. If the students have some trouble finding a solution, the peer mediators are happy to try and help them find one.
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Learn about East Asian cuisine and art
Teachers and students prepare for annual luncheon
By Jackie S.
Entertainment editor
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| Peacock parent, Mrs. Saito, teaches FACS students how to conduct a Japanese tea ceremony. (photo by Mrs. Mann) | |
About thirty students are working on the luncheon. It will take about four full weeks to prepare. The menu will be cucumber salad, chicken teriyaki and a "glorious" cheesecake.
The students will cook and serve the meal. Some servers will dress in kimonos, a Japanese robe, and others will wear red and white, the colors on the Japanese flag.
The students will design table decorations and centerpieces.
They are also learning to perform a Japanese tea ceremony for their guests.
Some students had the following comments on the luncheon:
"I think the theme is different, and it will be fun to cook this kind of food."
"Sounds cool, because you get to learn about Japanese culture."
"I like it a lot and look forward to the luncheon."
"I can't wait until we cook the food."
"I'm looking forward to being a waiter because I can't cook."
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“I think the theme is different, and it will be fun to cook this kind of food.” |
Mrs. Dengler's sixth grade students will make a Japanese ink value painting that involves lines, called a sumi-e. They will also learn some Chinese calligraphy to write in their sumi-e books.
Along with sumi-e books, the seventh grade students are making Japanese and Korean style ceramics. Most students are making a fish, which is a significant animal in Asian art and culture.
Mrs. Dengler will also select two photographers to take pictures at the luncheon.
Mrs. Mann, Mrs. Dengler, and all the students interviewed were very excited about the luncheon. They hope that everything will go smoothly.
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Demise of spring play upsets many
By Jessica L.
Features editor
Last year, the director of Peacock's musical productions, Mr. Travis, decided that with a new baby at home, he didn't have the many hours that it takes to organize a musical.
Therefore, as of now, there will be neither an eighth grade musical nor an all-school spring musical this year.
"I have a family now and I cannot spend four days a week at school from 7:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. and then go home and do more work on the productions," stated Mr. Travis.
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Just one musical production costs nearly $4000 for royalties, costumes, makeup and sets. |
According to Mr. Travis, Dr. Nickisch was shocked to hear that he would no longer direct the musicals.
When asked about the possibility of a future production, Mr. Travis did comment that he thought that it was a good idea for the student body to pull together and put on a play this year, if they wanted to.
It won't be easy though. Just one musical production costs nearly $4000 for royalties, costumes, make-up and sets.
Many eighth grade students are quite upset with Mr. Travis's decision. Carly L. said, "I can see why Mr. Travis can't do it this year, but our grade deserves something, whether it be just the eighth grade or the whole school, we should keep the theatrical spirit alive at Peacock."
A committee of concerned students has been formed to keep this Peacock tradition alive. It consists of Kristen M, Jessica L, Carly L, Christy G, Agnes Z and Kaitlyn L.
The committee has been brainstorming on how to overcome the situation and soon plan to address the issue with Dr. Nickisch. For now, all they can do is wait and see how the problem unravels.
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Newscast nearer to premier
Late November targeted for first show
By Megan L.
Circulation editor
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| Seventh grader Rosa A. and eighth grader Mariana D. monitor the control panel in the broadcast studio.. (photo by Megan L.) | |
First, it will help students learn to communicate through a news program.
It will also teach them how to present what they are learning and doing in clubs and other fun activities.
Overall, the newscasts will show and celebrate what students do in and out of class.
The video club uses the studio Friday mornings before school, as well as on Mondays after school.
Mrs. Bernahl will also arrange a time for students to use the studio if they cannot make the regular meetings.
The news show will begin later in the fall. When that happens, there will be Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday groups for the news.
Mrs. Bernahl said that every group who comes in may choose to create programs, such as book talks, debates, skits, Spanish programs, or fashion shows.
Mrs. Bernahl would like to film a lot of school events. She hopes to post clips from the shows on the district web site.
Eventually, Mrs. Bernahl even hopes to enter student work in scholastic video competitions.
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Spanish Club
New advisor plans holiday celebrations
By Julia N.
¡Holà Como Esta? That is what you might hear if you walk into a Spanish Club meeting, which is held in Miss Okon's room every other Wednesday.
According to Miss Okon, the Spanish Club is "for all students interested in expanding their knowledge of the Spanish language and culture."
The Spanish Club isn't just about learning a new language. Members say that they have a lot of fun as well. For example, they celebrate some Hispanic holidays. These include Indigenous Peoples' Day, Navajo Sing, and Coya Rayni.
Another popular club project is making Piñatas.
The Spanish Club is open to anyone who wants to participate. Stop by Mr. Okon's room after school for more information.
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