views - Saint Viator High School

December 2011
VIATOR VOICE
Volume 46 Issue 4
It’s a Seasonal Life
Season of Sharing continues to raise money for the Howard
Area Community Center and the families they help.
Hobo on the Loose:
Mr. Nall shares his
experiences, views
on teaching
Look Out the Window:
Expanded coverage of
world politics in new
section debut
Snow Fight:
The two upcoming
Snow White movies
face off

Photos by Tristan Blus, Colleen Dempsey, Grace Hubick, Matt Lanus, Chris Santucci, Ashley Naliwajko, Alyssa Abay,
Lara Sladek and Katie Novak

Editors-in-Chief
TABLE OF CONTENTS 3
News Editor
Opinion Editor
Features Editor
Entertainment Editor
Sports Editor
Graphics Editor
Copy Editors
Business Managers
Faculty Advisor
EDITORIAL STAFF
Grace Donnelly
Madeleine Ptacin
Paul Lewis
Jake Soprych
Erin Nelson
Libby Donnelly
Anthony Di Silvestro
Chris Santucci
Jackie Cruz
Bit Meehan
Joe Bansfield
Jimmy Ganas
Mr. Chris Paolelli
STAFF WRITERS
Sean Culm
Mike DeStefano
Peter Glinos
Sean Imburgia
Noelle Jay
Clare Koehler
Megan Kozicki Annie Lambesis
Joseph Lorenzini Lauren Madden
Clare Majewski Tyler McCrea
Annie Nagle Ray O’Hara
Ben Paolelli
Nick Principi
Vinitha Raj
Kim Romano
Lexie Ropski Carly Simonaitis
Frank Skorski Erica Weiszmann
GRAPHICS STAFF
Alyssa Abay
Jack Lakowske
Anthony Bartell Matt Lanus
Tristan Blus
Vanessa Lopez
Maeve Cavanagh Ashley Naliwajko
Colleen Dempsey Katie Novak
Margaret DeZelar Destiny Shin
Grace Hubick Lara Sladek
Katie Kerstetter Kyong Yoo
Ben Paolelli
VIATOR VOICE
SAINT VIATOR HIGH SCHOOL
LAYOUT STAFF
Cover Photo by Katie Novak
News
Farewell Kirkpatrick ..............................................................4
A Successful toy drive .............................................................4
The Biggest Loser ...................................................................5
Roaring in the Winter ............................................................6
Changes in the Church ..........................................................6
Look Out the Window ........................................................8-9
Opinion
Tech advancements? Good or Bad? .......................................10
Black Friday Shopping Frenzy .............................................11
Christmas Tree Controversy .................................................11
Terrorizing Toddlers .............................................................12
Opposing Voices: Fitness Testing ..........................................13
Features
No more hitting the slopes ...................................................14
To infinity and Beyond with SLC .........................................15
TEACHER FEATURE: Mr. Nall .........................................16
Livin’ in the school ...............................................................17
Jesus Season: Season of Sharing ............................................17
Entertainment
News
Playing Santa
The results are in for this
year’s Walter Payton Toy
Drive. All four classes have
competed to see who can
collect the most toys.
See page 4
Photo by Chris Santucci
Snow White Squared ............................................................18
American Wolf Interview .....................................................19
Fatal Attraction to Horror Movies ........................................19
CRITICS CORNER: December .....................................20-21
Sports
SVHS teams travels to state ..................................................22
The Legacy of Coach K ........................................................23
NBA Lockout .......................................................................23
Girls Basketball Starting out strong ......................................24
Boys Swimming ............................................................24
The Viator Voice is a student-produced newspaper published by Saint Viator High School. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily the
views of the Viator Voice editorial staff or the Saint Viator administration. Students, parents, faculty and staff are welcome to submit letters to the editor
via e-mail to theviatorvoice@gmail.com. The Viator Voice reserves the right to reject or edit letters for length or content. All letters must be signed. The staff
will only publish legally protected speech following legal definitions of libel, obscenity, and invasion of privacy. The Viator Voice accepts paid advertising. For
an advertising contract, call (847) 392-4050 x287, or e-mail cpaolelli@saintviator.com. Advertising contracts must be signed and mailed to the school, ATTN:
Viator Voice, or emailed to cpaolelli@saintviator.com. The Viator Voice has the right to reject any ad because of deadlines or content.
DECEMBER EM
ER
2011
1213 E. Oakton, Arlington Heights, IL theviatorvoice@gmail.com

4
NEWS
Farewell to dean, counselor
The Kirkpatrick family prepares for their future after Viator
Clare Majewski
Staff Writer
After a decade of memories at Saint
Viator, Mrs. Julie Kirkpatrick,
counselor for the class of 2014,
and Mr. Chris Kirkpatrick, dean of
students, will be leaving the Saint
Viator community next year before the
beginning of the 2012-2013 school year.
Mr. Kirkpatrick has been a dean at Saint
Viator for eight years. Some of his other
contributions to Saint Viator include
the head football coach for a total of
ten years. Through his many successes
with our varsity football team, he leaves
behind a permanent reminder of how
he, along with the players and coaches,
led our team to numerous victories
throughout the years.
“I am going to miss his compassion for
the game,” said senior Joe LaMantia.
Mr. Kirkpatrick will be starting his new
job as the Athletic Director at Bishop
McNamara Catholic High School where
he will also be the assistant varsity
football coach.
“I will miss the sense of community that
I have formed with most of the faculty
and student body,” said Mr. Kirkpatrick.
“I will also miss game day mass with the
football team.”
His wife, Mrs. Kirkpatrick, who has
been a counselor for 10 years at Saint
Viator, will also be leaving the school.
She says she is going to miss working
with the students and being able to help
them achieve success, as well as help
them become better people in general.
The Kirkpatrick family prepares to
move south.
Photo by Chris Santucci
“I am very sad about leaving St. Viator,”
said Mrs. Kirkpatrick I love working with
the students, parents and the teachers.
However, I am excited about my new
opportunities.”
Mrs Kirkpatrick will become a stayat-home
mom, until her three children
become old enough. She hopes to find
another job in the future.
Because Mrs. Kirkpatrick is currently
the counselor for the sophomore class of
2014, many students are saddened by her
leaving.
“I am really sad to hear that she is
leaving,” said sophomore Lauren Mroz.
“She was very helpful during freshman
year and really helped me to love St.
Viator.”
Mrs. Kirkpatrick gave students the
chance to confide in her, helped them
develop their academic identity, as well
as find themselves through the hectic
high school schedule.
“Mrs. Kirkpatrick is a great counselor,”
said sophomore Sophia Campanelli.
“She is really nice and considerate. I was
really able to talk to her; she has helped
me through a lot. It’s sad to think of her
being gone.”
Through the many memories they
both will leave behind, the Saint Viator
community will miss both Mr. and Mrs.
Kirkpatrick deeply and wish them the
best of luck with all that lies ahead for
them.
Walter Payton Toy Drive
The results are in... Juniors take first in the annual collection
1st Place: Juniors
2nd Place: Seniors
3rd Place: Sophomores
3rd Place: Freshman
Juniors - 6 boxes
Seniors - 4.5 boxes
Sophomores - 4 boxes
Freshman - 4 boxes
DECEMBER 2011
A total of 18.5 boxes were collected
for the Walter and Connie Payton
Foundation Holiday Toy Drive,
according to Mrs. Cathy Abrahamian,
moderator of Students Making
Smart Choices.
“ [We] want to thank all the Saint
Viator students and parents for
making this a successful toy drive,”
says Studens Making Smart Choices.
Sophomore Parker Simonaitis adds to
the toy box Photo by Chris Santucci
Saint Viator High School
www.saintviator.com

NEWS 5
Teachers challenged to save energy
Science club participates in biggest loser competition
Megan Kozicki
Staff Writer
As many people
are aware, Saint
Viator recently
teamed up with the Alliance
for Climate Education,
or ACE, to educate
the school on how climate
change can negatively
affect the world
and what we can do to
reduce our impact on
the problem. The Science
Club, lead by Mrs.
Jan Grana and Mrs. Patricia
Schroeder, are
taking the initiative to
make changes in the
school to reduce St. Viator’s
carbon footprint.
Science Club members gather for a meeting during an activity
schedule.
Photo by Lara Sladek
The Science Club
started “The Biggest
Loser: Energy
Addition,” project
early in Nov. According
to the Science
Club, they
began doing energy
audits—tracking
the amount of
energy used—for
certain classrooms
that chose to participate.
Over four
weeks, the teachers
in those classrooms
tried to reduce
their energy usage
through techniques
like only
turning half the
lights on, turning
off their monitor
when they are not at their desk and
unplugging other unnecessary appliances
when they are not using them.
“Not only is participating in the energy
audit a great way to reduce our
impact on the climate, but also a great
way to reduce costs. All the money that
we save by turning off lights builds up
over time and we can use that money
to help the school in other ways,” commented
Madam Lenee Soto, one of the
participating teachers.
The Biggest Loser: Energy Addition
went on for a month.
“A month is how long it takes to build
up a habit, and hopefully, people will
continue these habits after the project
ends,” says Mrs. Grana.
The Science Club is not ending their
quest for a more eco-friendly Viator
at the end of the project. There are
hopes to continue the project by putting
more recycling bins in the cafeteria,
so bottles can be recycled, selling
reusable water-bottles to cut down on
the amount of plastic produced, and
finding new ways to commit the student
body to being environmentally
friendly.
1213 E. Oakton, Arlington Heights, IL theviatorvoice@gmail.com
DECEMBER 2011

6
DECEMBER 2011
Saint Viator High School
NEWS
New Roman Missal creates more formal Mass
Catholic Church moves closer to Latin roots of liturgy
Erin Primdahl
ments, and the Vox Clara
Staff Writer
Committee before they were
What was foreshadowed by the published.
campus ministers at the allschool
Mass on Nov. 16 is now Prayer of the Faithful, the Greeting and Welcome
The Scripture readings, the
present as of Sunday, Nov. 27. Not only structure of the service itself Priest: “The Lord be with you
did this day initiate the new Liturgical and various other components
of the Mass will remain New: “And with your spirit.”
Old: “And also with you.”
year; on top of that, it provided Catholics
with the updated language of worship.
changes are heard, rather than Old: “We believe in one God.”
the same. The majority of the The first line of the Nicene Creed.
As of Nov. 27, the new Roman Missal said, by the laity.
New: “I believe in one God.”
differs from the familiar phrases that The modifications are found “Let us give thanks to the Lord our God”
Catholics have repeated for almost 40 throughout the service. Specifically,
the new response New: “It is right and just.”
Old: “It is right to give Him thanks and praise.”
years. Although it may be confusing to
people at first, the adjustments provide to the greeting, “The Lord —“Mass Responses and Prayers” from FaithCatholic
a more accurate translation of its Latin be with you,” and the sign of
origin.
peace, “The peace of the Lord
“The changes help me think during
Countless members of the Church be with you always,” is now “And with Mass,” said Matt Beiswenger, sophomore.
“They help me realize what I am
have spent years guiding the translation
process, according to “What’s New you.” In addition, the first line of the actually saying and not feel like a rou-
your spirit,” instead of “And also with
about the Mass for Teens” a pamphlet Nicene Creed changed from “We believe tine”.
published by “Liturgy Training Publications.”
Specifically, the International Also, the response to “Let us give thanks grew up with Mass completely in Latin.
in one God,” to, “I believe in one God.” “I agree with the changes because I
Commission on English Liturgy (ICEL) to the Lord our God” is now “It is right It is more comfortable for me that way,”
held international meetings to decide and just,” which substitutes, “It is right said Mrs. Sonia Hesterman, a member of
on the most accurate and appropriate to give Him thanks and praise.” Furthermore,
the phrase, “Lord, I am not worthy While many parishes, parishioners,
the cafeteria staff.
translation. After these meetings, the
documents were sent to Rome to be approved
by the Congregation for Divine not worthy that you should enter under lish adaptation, others were more un-
to receive you” has become “Lord, I am and priests embraced the revised Eng-
Worship, the Discipline of the Sacra-
my roof.”
certain on the matter. The unfamiliar-
Students roar once again
Relaunched literary magazine releases its second issue
Tyler McCrea
Staff Writer
This year the Roar Literary Magazine
will be publishing their
second issue since it was reestablished
last year. The magazine allows
students to submit a variety of
art forms including short stories, poems,
drawings and even sculptures.
“Roar allows students to submit and publish
works that they would probably not
be able to otherwise. It encourages and
supports creativity,” said Bit Meehan, a
junior and the co-editor of the magazine.
The magazine was revived last year
after it was halted in 2003. Roar distinguishes
itself from other Viator
clubs, namely the Viator Voice,
by publishing works of fiction rather
than editorials and news pieces.
“Roar is a great place
for students to get
their artwork out there
in a safe and secure
environment,” senior
Kiki Sassalino stated.
Roar is undoubtedly
popular amongst
Viator’s more creative
students, however
other students who
are not involved in an
art class or who are
new students may not
know about Roar. One such student is
junior Erin Traci.
Sing a new song
A sampling of new Mass responses
Graphic provided by Roar staff
“I know absolutely nothing
about (Roar),” Erin said.
Roar hopes to increase
their readership this year
and urges many more students
to participate by submitting
their creative works
so that they can be recognized
for their hard work.
The Dec. issue is very important
to the Roar staff
and the students who submitted
their work to Roar.
They hope that they will be
able to have many students
read and enjoy the magazine
and to publish many more issues in
the future.
www.saintviator.com

NEWS 7
Mass, continued
ity of The Roman Missal has provoked
a debate between Catholics. A number
of people in the Church believe that the
variations contradict the decision made
in the Second Vatican Council: to permit
the use of the vernacular in the liturgy. A
petition has been started pertaining to
this issue at whatifwejustsaidwait.org.
“It means more to me to pray in simpler
terms because I can understand it
better. It’s what I’m used to,” said Kristen
Strand, sophomore. “I find it hard
to pray when I don’t even know what I’m
talking about.”
“It was awkward at Mass,” said Luke
DeTrempe, junior. “Everyone was saying
different things.”
“It is hard to pray while stumbling over
the words,” said Fr. VanWiel. “Maybe in
time it will become more natural.”
After observing the first few Masses,
Ms. Fons is optimistic.
“I think it will be a rough transition for
everyone to learn the new prayers, but
it will turn out to be a good thing in the
end,” said Ms. Fons, “There’s never a bad
time to make things more accurate.”
1213 E. Oakton, Arlington Heights, IL theviatorvoice@gmail.com
Veteran’s Day Collection
SALUTE’s letter of gratitude for donations
Dear Saint Viator Students,
We “Salute You” and thank you
for your incredible donation to
SALUTE, INC. honoring Veterans’
Day. When you work together, miracles
can happen. Your $1,730.00
donation from your “Dress Down
Day” will make a significant difference
in the life of the following military
family. Here is the story from
the “O” Family:
My husband was wounded in
combat and medically retired. He
is unemployable and suffers from
Traumatic Brain Injury as well as
severe Post Traumatic Stress Disorder,
migraines and other issues.
Each day is a struggle, and this new
burden just adds to the mix. We are
unfortunately preparing ourselves
to default on most of our bills, as we
are just requesting the bare necessities
for our family. Mortgage, utilities,
groceries and child expenses
for school and some winter clothes.
And any help would be greatly appreciated,
and one day we hope to
return any funds received.
Thank you again for your generosity
and Christ-like attitude. You
are all a true example of how God
works through his disciples.
God bless and always remember
to Honor the Service and Remember
the Sacrifice.
Sincere and Warmest Regards,
Will and Mary Beth Beiersdorf
Co-Founders, SALUTE INC.
DECEMBER 2011

8
DECEMBER 2011
LOOK OUT THE WINDOW...
Should the United States withdraw from Iraq by the year’s end?
Joseph Lorenzini
Staff Writer
Yes
The war in Iraq has been a failure for the United
States. The original intention of the war
was to locate and destroy weapons of mass destruction
the Iraq allegedly had in its procession,
but no such weapons were found. A total
of 4,484 U.S. soldiers have died serving in Iraq,
32,213 have been wounded, and $704.6 billion
has been spent on the war. These figures have
ruined the lives of countless veterans and added
a huge chunk to the massive deficit and debt
our country is facing today. It is time to pull
out before these numbers get worse. After nine
years of fighting, it is time to let the Iraqis rule
themselves without the tyrannical presence of
foreign troops. It is time to put the money and
effort the U.S. is spending in Iraq to good use.
Candidates for 2012 Presidential Election
NewtGingrich
• Against Obama Care
• Supports Bush-Era tax cuts
• Supports the use of water boarding
• Against the building of a Mosque at
Ground Zero
• Willing to increase funding in Math
and Science
• Against gay marriage
MittRomney
• Against Health Care
• Believes America should have invaded
Iraq
• Supports No Child Left Behind
• Supports moderate gun control laws
• Does not approve of gay marriage
• Thinks abortion should be desided on a state level
No
Leaving Iraq too soon can reverse all of the work the
U.S. has done to make Iraq a better country. The
war in Iraq disposed of the tyrannical dictator of
Saddam Hussein, and it established a democracy in
a largely autocratic area of the world. U.S. troops
have protected not only these democratic ideals
but have allowed American interests to enter the
country. Iraq is not stable enough to govern itself,
and its instability will allow extremists groups of a
new dictator to take over, overturning one of the
few American allies in the region back to its oppressed
state. It is our duty as a country to complete
the task we started of “nation building”, that is,
shaping Iraq into a strong, allied presence to bring
freedom to oppressed people around the world.
RickPerry
• Advocate for economic, employment
growth
• Wants low taxes for both individuals
and corporations
• Wants to close the deficit
• Pro-life and against gay marriage
• Wants to get rid of the Depts. of Commerce and Education
• Believes global warming is a “contrived phony mess”
BarackObama
• Supports the 2010 Health Care Law
• Wants more government control on
economy
• Extended unemployment benefits
and continued Bush tax cuts
• Pro-choice for abortion
• Wants to make citizenship easier to
obtain
• Wants more regulation on guns
— Reported by Peter Glinos, Madeleine Ptacin, Grace
Donnelly
Saint Viator High School
www.saintviator.com

LOOK OUT THE WINDOW... 9
Teens mixed on political knowledge, interest
Sean Culm
Staff Writer
Depending on who you are, the
mention of politics might
make your head hurt. But
in reality, that’s how it is for almost
everyone. Politics, in basic terms,
can be defined as how a large group
of people, such as a nation, systematically
works as one. Interestingly
enough, there is no real defined system
of politics as it is always changing.
Laws and trades being made every
day, that’s politics.
For teens, it may seem like a concept
too big for us to grasp. Republican
and Democrat is all anybody
thought they really needed to know,
but actually understanding what
people are always reporting about on
the news may mean the difference
between voting for once candidate
or another in the future. If you don’t
it could lead to some serious ignorance.
In a study made by NEWS-
WEEK, 1000 people (U.S. citizens)
4
3.5
3
2.5
2
Foreign
Policy
Health Care Economy
Social
Issues
Personal
Character
1213 E. Oakton, Arlington Heights, IL theviatorvoice@gmail.com
were given the official citizenship
test. A national test that grades you
on how much you understand the
U.S. government. Only 62% passed.
That means that for every 10 people,
4 don’t know anything and the rest
may know the facts but not the why
and how. It also found that around
1 out of every 20 people don’t even
know when the Fourth of July is.
All of this means is that about half
of our parents are voting without a
clue of what they’re even voting for.
Having an educated opinion of any
type is what keeps the political world
moving. Simply following what your
parents or friends think doesn’t make
it your opinion, it makes it theirs. Not
only that, but there are a lot of life
-changing questions raised in Washington
D.C. every day. For example,
do you think a 50 million dollar wind
farm should be made instead of a
40 million dollar coal power plant?
This question is the kind that makes
opinions fly throughout politics, and
If you were choosing a political candidate to
vote for, which of the following factors would
affect your decision most?
Freshmen
Sophomores
Juniors
Seniors
Poll conducted during homeroom and consists of 71 students
of all grade levels. Poll not scientific.
whether you like it or not your energy
bill depend on what the government
decides is the better option. A
few students were asked what they
think is the most important political
issue today. Some people laughed
and claimed they didn’t care, while
others gave a serious response.
“The loss of America’s power. Not
only does China not have a debt, but
also we are in debt to China. We can’t
make progress globally with a marketing
superpower telling us what to
do,” said freshman Michael Baxendale.
In the end though, it all comes
down to the fact that within a decade
we will be the ones voting and moving
the government. The world won’t
be in the hands of our parents. Perhaps
now might be the best time to
grab some political knowledge more
than ever. If opinions never change,
how is the world supposed to?
Sources:
http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/2012/president/us/republician_presidential_nomination-1452.
html
http://ajherrma.hubpages.com/hub/mittromney
http://www.gallup.com/poll/113980/gallup-dailyobama-job-approval.aspx
http://ajherrma.hubpages.com/hub/newtgingrich2012
http://www.issues2000.org/Rick_Perry.html
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/
nov/29//hurt-gingrich-is-gops-latest-notromney/?page=all
http://ajherrma.hubpages.com/hub/rickperrypolitics
http://ajherrma.hubpages.com/hub/obamapositions
http://www.google.com/imgres?q=rick+perry&um=
1&hl=en&sa=
http://www.google.com/imgres?q=obama&um=1&h
l=en&biw=1440&bih=754&tbm=isch&tbnid=
http://www.google.com/imgres?q=newt+gingrich&u
m=1&hl=en&biw=1440&bih=754&tbm=isch&t
http://www.google.com/imgres?q=mitt+romney&um=1
&hl=en&biw=1440&bih=754&tbm=isch&tb
DECEMBER 2011

10
OPINION
Technology leaves consumers in the dust
Advancing technology pushes consumers to keep up this holiday season
Ray O’Hara
Staff Writer
The holiday season is upon us once again and the competition
for the newest electronics are underway. Stockings
will no doubt be filled with the biggest brand names in
the industry. Last month, the iPhone 4GS was released to customers
around the world. This marked the fifth release of a
new iPhone in just four years. While it’s obvious that technology
is changing very quickly, it may make people wonder if it’s
too quick.
With a new version of an electronic device coming out almost
every year, others become dated. For example, when the
original iPhone came out in 2007, the largest size available was
8GB. Within eight months the largest size had been doubled.
Now the consumer with the 8GB iPhone was suddenly inferior
to those who waited less than a year from the original release
date.
Annual sports video games provide the perfect scheme for
consumers to purchase a new version of the game every year.
EA Sports manages to create a new version of Madden for every
NFL season. Everyone has to have the new players in this
year’s version of the game, so they have no problem handing
over the dough to buy it. At $65 every single year, this can become
an expensive series to follow.
Changing technology has not only affected the way people
buy, it has also affected their attitude toward technology. Long
gone are the days when people were amazed by new advancements
in modern science. We now just expect out products to
work. Rarely do people ever look back and think about how
life would be different if this product had never been created.
Instead, we complain about why it is not working when we
need it. The luxury of technology has been ruined by the expectance
of its dependency.
When e-mail was first introduced to the world, people felt
that it revolutionized the way we communicate. We would no
longer need to use “snail-mail” and could instead reach anybody
within minutes. Some people felt that regular postal service
would eventually fade away. We now see services such as
instant messaging, text messaging, and social media networks
threatening to fade e-mail away. Why send somebody an e-
mail that they might not check for several hours when we can
get a response within minutes through a text? Now our biggest
worry is why our text won’t send from this corner of the building.
Maybe it’s because you’re standing underneath four feet
of concrete.
People also look for the most convenient way to obtain their
information. Almost every cell phone has internet access available.
This is something that would have never been imagined
when the cell phone was first produced. Now people rely on
this as their primary source of the web while outside the home.
Soon the entire desk-top computer may vanish because of
the overwhelming popularity of “smart” phones. When I was
DECEMBER 2011
forced to get a twitter account this school year because of the
new communication policy, I found myself looking to have
the tweets sent directly to my phone. This seemed like a much
simpler option than logging into my computer and actually
checking the twitter account. Technology has helped bring a
new standard of lazy upon us.
It is unknown as to what the future of the world will become
with the unlimited amount of technological advancements.
Maybe someday the Viator Voice will instead be distributed
through an electronic tablet. However, there is one thing that
is clear. Technology has and always will be ever changing. As
we move into the future, it can only be assumed that technology
will continue to advance at an alarming rate.
Popular tech products including laptops, iPods, and
iPhones regularly become outdated as new products are
released.
Photos by Angelina Manola
Saint Viator High School
www.saintviator.com

OPINION 11
Consumers suffer, succeed during Black Friday sales
Cyber Monday the safe, healthy, beneficial
alternative to post-Thanksgiving sales rush
Mike DeStefano
Staff Writer
Waking up early, waiting for hours and hours, add
in savings—tons of savings. What do you get? The
“Black Friday” experience. For over 200 million bargain-hunters,
this is an annual tradition practiced every Black
Friday. While proponents of this shopping madness claim
that Black Friday’s bargains are worth the hassle, others argue
that saving money simply does not justify the self-sacrifice and
aggravation that go into Black Friday shopping.
The idea of saving 30 to 70 percent on all merchandise in a
store sounds appealing, so appealing that it rakes in more than
$40 billion in a single day.
“I’m all for it,” said senior Patrick Hulsebosch. “There are great
Frank Skorski
Staff Writer
The Christmas tree; a universal symbol of the holiday season
and America’s most popular holiday. But where did
this symbol come from? Well, let your mind gravitate
into the 18 th century near Rhineland, Germany. This is where
the Christmas tree was born. Originally decorated with foods
like fruits and nuts, the Christmas tree was even hung upside
down in some cases to represent the sign of the trinity.
Now to the real question: seeing that a majority of American’
have shifted away from a natural Christmas tree to an artificial
one, which option is better?
I personally prefer a real Christmas tree over an artificial one,
but I’m open to new ideas. One pro of a real Christmas tree is
the good smell which triggers the Christmas spirit. So, if you
want that new pair of shoes, first convince your parents to get
1213 E. Oakton, Arlington Heights, IL theviatorvoice@gmail.com
Art by Alyssa Abay
savings, and that’s definitely worth it when you consider today’s
economy.”
Patrick is right: Black Friday’s encouragement to spend money
stimulates the struggling economy much more than one
might expect. Despite the struggling economy, Black Friday
produced a three-percent economic surge in 2010 and a sixpercent
surge the previous year thanks to thrifty consumers.
Determination to save big bucks drives these consumers to
extreme lengths. Last year, a Florida couple camped outside of
a Best Buy for over a week in order to be first in line—just to
buy a TV. Of course, everyone remembers those more common
news clips featuring crowds of crazed shoppers sprinting
through store doors at 4 A.M., breaking gates and shoving store
employees to get their hands on their favorite products before
the others do. A New York Wal-Mart employee was trampled
to death during a Black Friday stampede in 2008, only seconds
after the mob of shoppers broke through the front door of the
store. Four others were hospitalized after sustaining
minor injuries in the stampede. That same day,
two men were shot to death at a California Toys ‘R
‘Us during an argument.
However, proponents and opponents of Black
Friday shopping know that being trampled to
death or shot on Black Friday is unlikely. Still, the
long lines, early hours, and hectic atmosphere suffice
to keep plenty of people at home and in their
beds during the chaos. Black Friday is too much of
a hassle for senior Clare Hulsebosch because “sleep
is supreme” for anyone, not just for high school
students. For those who cannot withstand the
torture of Black Friday, I offer an at-home alternative:
Cyber Monday. Cyber Monday, the Monday
following Black Friday, is a day during which Black
Friday-caliber deals can be found online. No waking
up early, no lines, and no people wielding guns.
It sounds like a decent idea to me.
The battle of the Christmas trees
Artificial trees reign supreme over all-natural approach to the Christmas tradition
a real Christmas tree to lighten their mood. Another plus is
that a real tree eventually dies, thus requiring no storage and
leaving some extra room in your garage for that new car. There
is also no substitute for decorating a real tree. Even if you get
pricked by a needle, it’s still worth it to decorate a live Christmas
tree. The obvious cons are the messy installation and decoration
of a live Christmas tree.
So if you’re looking for an easy set up and I do mean set up,
buy yourself an artificial Christmas tree. Another con would be
allergies. If someone in your household is allergic to trees or
evergreens then this would not be a good decoration for your
home. One more con is the risk of a real tree’s pine needles and
sap ruining that perfect gift. So no matter what kind of tree you
have, whether real or fake, big or small, find a way to express
yourself in a fun way. With that I wish you a fun, family-filled
Christmas Holiday. Fröhliche Weihnachten! Merry Christmas!
DECEMBER 2011

12
OPINION
Toddlers, tiaras and spray tans
Mothers control daughters in effort to relive youth on television
Lauren Madden
Staff Writer
Let’s be honest: just about every four-year old girl has the
hopes and dreams of becoming a princess and beauty
pageants give them the chance to wear the glitzy dress
and wave to the crowd, just as a princess would. Although,
sometimes the child isn’t the one who wants the glamour. It’s a
classic case of mothers living their younger years through their
children and it’s disgusting.
Toddlers and Tiaras is a reality show about girls from six
months old to six years old performing in beauty pageants and
the drama that happens during preparation and backstage. A
majority of these pageants take place in southern parts of the
United States year round. It all sounds like innocent fun for
the girls: put on the pretty dress, do a cute dance for the judges
and hopefully you win. However, there’s a lot more to it then
that.
Dresses, spray tans, false eyelashes, make-up, curling irons,
shoes and hair extensions make only a fraction of the cost for
what these parents are paying for these pageants. Entrance
fees alone can cost up to 1,000 dollars. Then there’s transportation
to the site of the pageant and coaching for the contestant,
but nobody can put a price on trying to get a two-yearold
to cooperate when you’re trying to put false teeth into her
screaming mouth.
There are always the occasional parents on a show who will
claim that as soon as they found out their child was a girl, they
had her signed up for the next beauty pageant. This sounds
to me like somebody has been breathing in too much hairspray
because these mothers don’t even give their daughters
the choice of participating in the pageants.
But of course, there’s nothing more entertaining than
watching psychotic mothers attempting to turn their own
children into Barbie dolls. Now here’s the question: is it worth
it? Is a hilarious reality show worth the false sense of beauty
these girls receive from winning these pageants? It doesn’t
take talent to spin a baton up into the air and catch it. Looking
adorable in a tutu isn’t going to guarantee your success in life.
These young girls are getting the wrong idea not only about
what their parents expect of them, but also how about how to
succeed later on in life. It is clear that these young girls don’t
know any better and it’s not fair to them because they are not
even allowed the choice of not participating in these pageants.
Art by Margaret DeZelar
Have an Opinion?
Contact the editors and give your thoughts
on the articles in this Viator Voice issue.
E-mail us at:
theviatorvoice@gmail.com
DECEMBER 2011
Saint Viator High School
www.saintviator.com

OPINION 13
Tyler McCrea
Staff Writer
Fitness testing has been a part of
students’ physical education classes
for as long as we can remember. Running
timed laps along with counting
pushups and sit ups are something
students automatically relate to P.E.
In a country where growing obesity
rates and lack of physical activity
are at the forefront of most political
campaigns and the subject of countless
television advertisements, fitness
testing and physical fitness in
general are very important.
“Fitness testing gives students an
idea of the base levels of fitness they
need to achieve,” said senior gym
leader Joey Caputo. “And it shows
them how they can improve, grow
stronger, and lead a more healthy
life.”
Some people claim that fitness testing
may cause emotional distress to
students who are not able to compete
with more physically able students
and may hurt their self-esteem. However,
I feel that seeing other students
who are more physically fit would
inspire one to become more physically
fit themselves. One way to eliminate
the emotional factor would be to conduct
the tests individually. This would
take more time, but students might
feel more inclined to work harder and
may feel less pressure than when being
tested in front of their peers. This idea
presents some challenges, though, because
Viator has neither the manpower
nor the time to conduct the tests individually.
In the end, students should take a
more positive outlook when it comes to
fitness testing. Being active and staying
fit are not things that should fill them
with dread, but inspire them to work
harder by building their strengths and
improving their weaknesses. One thing
is for sure; fitness testing will remain a
highly debated and important topic for
many years to come.
OPPOSING
VOICES
Is fitness testing an accurate measure of students’ health?
Brad Bublitz
YES
Staff Writer NO
1213 E. Oakton, Arlington Heights, IL theviatorvoice@gmail.com
Art by Destiny Shin
There is no argument against the overall
importance of health in today’s world.
Healthy people live longer and are less
likely to develop certain diseases as a result
of keeping their bodies in shape. Physical
fitness should be an essential part of
everyone’s life and the Physical Education
Department has fully recognized the need
for informing and teaching students how
to succeed in staying fit.
As students enrolled in Physical Education
classes, we are all subject to the fitness
testing week composed of the Pacer,
Pushup, Curl-up, Sit and Reach, and Grip
tests. While some may argue that these five
simple tests are the most efficient ways to
measure a student’s fitness, there are numerous
flaws and fallouts against this system.
Whether you’re a scrawny freshman or
the starting varsity linebacker, non-athletic
or a Division-I recruit, we all have to
perform the same five tests—and are resultantly
graded on them. We all have different
body types, different levels of athleticism
and different passions in our lives.
If a sophomore girl slides her hands
across a board while raising her neck as
many times as a football recruit, should
college scouts rush to Mahoney to witness this athletic superstar? Or if a student hits
100 on the pacer while the state qualifying cross country runner struggles to reach 85
should we sign that kid up for track? Everyone has different abilities and performing
five simple exercises should not be the standard in determining a person’s overall fitness.
Taking the fitness testing as the sole measure of their physical fitness, many students
may get the wrong impressions of themselves. A student seeing fellow classmates run
50 more “paces” than him or her or sitting and reaching 10 more inches than him or her
could be discouraged their own ability. In such a seemingly judgmental world, it would
not be surprising if an underperforming fitness test participant may take the results
too tellingly and develop an eating disorder or other unhealthy behavior. While the test
may be administered to inform of one’s health, if it is inaccurate it doesn’t help anyone.
We should all be aware of our health and the shape we are in, but the current fitness
testing system in place should not be the all mighty determining factor. Instead of getting
scrutinized for flinching a foot while doing curl-ups or getting ridiculed for not
“locking” your right leg during the sit and reach, we should be more fully informed of
the necessary actions to take to get in shape. With a mind full of knowledge regarding
many health requirements and suitable fitness obtainment, we are all definitely smart
enough to take the actions ourselves in determining what we need to work on regarding
our health and fitness habits.
DECEMBER 2011

14
DECEMBER 2011
FEATURES
Out with the cold, in with the new
Saying goodbye to ski trip, saying hello to what’s to come
Clare Koehler
Staff Writer
As the winter season begins, many
students will be looking forward
to the snow filled activities associated
with the upcoming months.
It is around this time of year that students
usually begin preparing themselves
for what many consider to be the
highlight of their semester, the ski trip.
However, the students who normally
sign up for ski trip each year will have
to find another way to spend that weekend,
for it has been decided that ski trip
is being discontinued as of this year.
Held annually for the past 25 years during
the weekend after first semester finals,
about 120 students from all grades
toss out their semester study guides and
board an eight hour bus ride to Michigan’s
Upper Peninsula.
The weekend that follows is “a fun
loving experience to bond with people
you normally wouldn’t be able to
talk to,” said Abbey Austin, junior.
Despite the popularity
of the trip—
evident by the mob
of students that traditionally
rush in to
the school before six
in the morning on
the day of sign up
just to secure a spot
on the bus—faculty
decided that it is in
the best interests of
both the school and
the students to hereby
cancel the ski trip.
Mrs. Manno, who
has been chaperoning
the ski trip for the
past 25 years, has always
enjoyed attending
it and will be sad
to see it go. She feels that the trip is no
longer a possibility. In the past few years
alone, there have been dozens of injuries
on the slopes, though none too severe.
“It poses a liability for the school,”
said Mrs. Manno, “and it has a much
higher risk than other kinds of trips.”
A fire that broke out at Big Powderhorn
Mountain last year, which burned
down the entire main building only
days before Viator
students were
supposed to leave
for the ski trip,
has also caused
concerns. Those
buildings are old
and therefore
hazardous.
“Imagine if
a student had
been there when
that happened,”
Mrs. Manno said.
While these
concerns are valid,
many veteran
ski trip attendees
are outraged
by the sudden
loss of a tradition
that they consider
to be sacred. Other
students, who had
planned on attending
the ski trip for
the first time this
year, are also upset.
Freshmen who have
heard their siblings’
recollections
of the trip looked
forward to carrying
on the legacy. Seniors,
some unable
to attend before this
year, were hoping
to check the ski trip
off their to-do list
before graduating.
Even with all the
Art by Maeve Cavanagh
supporters, the ski
trip will remain unsaved,
though not for lack of trying. Junior
and veteran skier Luke DeTrempe,
whose family runs the Alpine Children’s
Charity, a charity that receives many
donations from Viator’s ski trip, sent
around a petition to reinstate the trip.
He managed to get 312 signatures in only
one day, proving the desire that many
students have to attend the ski trip.
“It’s disappointing
to see this Viator tradition
leave so suddenly,”
said DeTrempe.
“I tried everything to
bring the ski trip back,
but it seems like the
staff doesn’t see how
much it means to us.”
A large majority of
the student discontent
can be attributed to a
lack of reason. Many
believe that the ski
trip has been taken
away without a real
cause, thinking the
school is punishing
them. Even some alum-
Art by Maeve Cavanagh ni and parents have
been wondering why
the trip, which has been going on
for so long, is suddenly leaving.
However, Mrs. Manno made it very
clear that canceling the trip was in no
way a punishment for anyone. It is in the
best interests of the students to discontinue
Ski Trip in order to avoid anymore
injuries and future catastrophes.
“It was a business decision,” Mrs.
Manno said. “The kids weren’t bad.
There is no hidden agenda here.”
Despite Mrs. Manno’s reassurance,
some still feel that students are still
being punished. Many ask: what will
we do during the weekend after finals
if there isn’t a ski trip? Student council
has the answer. Chances of an all
school mixer during that weekend are
looking very good, and it is possible
that this generous activity will provide
another fun filled option for students.
Hopefully, answers towards why the ski
trip is not happening will calm students
down and clear the air. And though it
may be impossible to replace the ski trip,
perhaps a new tradition for future students
will be born in its wake.
Saint Viator High School
www.saintviator.com

FEATURES 15
Helping students’ spirits to soar
Spiritual Life Committee improves students’ faith lives
Annie Nagle
Staff Writer
Helping the Saint Viator community
build a strong spiritual
life is an important responsibility
for teachers, parents and students.
Faith life plays a key role in the mission
of Saint Viator. The religion department
and Campus Ministry offer new projects,
ideas and retreats to help students
deepen their faith. So the question is,
who plays a major part in brainstorming
these new ideas? The answer is the
Spiritual Life Committee.
According to Fr. Corey Brost C.S.V., a
Viatorian staff member on the committee,
this group is a committee from the
board of trustees at Saint Viator looking
to improve the faith life of the community.
“The spiritual life committee gives
ideas to the religion department as well
as Campus Ministry to help students,
parents, and faculty to grow in their
faith,” said Fr. Corey. “They look specifically
at special ways to strengthen the
faith life of both the individual as well as
the whole community.”
“We are here to improve the faith life of
the community as well as of prospective
students and families,” said Erin Malone,
a senior on the committee.
Malone, along with senior Billy Cavanagh,
and juniors Gianna Marshall and
Ethan Jedziniak, who participates in the
Spiritual Life Committee.
“At first it was a bit intimidating being
one of a few students on a committee
with adults like Fr. Egan and Fr. Corey,
but once we met a few times, it became
fun and easier,” Malone said. “They care
about the students’ opinions. By offering
our input, the adults get to look
through a student’s eyes, and they see
how to get through to kids.”
The group discusses their faith and
brainstorms specific ways to improve
the spiritual life of students and adults
at Saint Viator.
“I feel like this committee helps a lot,”
said Marshall. “We help the community
with their spiritual growth and make
kids more aware of their faith daily.”
Marshall also gave some insight on the
ideas that the committee is bringing to
the school.
“I helped to design the family faith
page that is going to launch at the beginning
of Advent. We are also working
really hard towards bringing kids’ faith
lives into their co-curricular activities.”
The Spiritual Life Committee is one of
the many ways our school works to help
students strengthen and grow in their
faith.
Black Friday: to go or not to go?
Students debate whether to face the slings and arrows of mad sales
Carly Simonaitis
Staff Writer
craziness that describes
Black Friday proves not to
‘The
be just hype. On November
25 th , injuries, robberies, and arrests
plagued retailer outlets. At a Los Angeles
Walmart, a police officer attacked
twenty customers with pepper spray in
order for a woman to obtain a discounted
Xbox video game player. In Connecticut,
a shopper was stun-gunned because
of disorderly conduct while waiting to
check out. Down in Florida, a teenager
was trampled after being knocked over
in a consumer surge to the electronics
department. With such madness overwhelming
the night, are the drastic price
cut bargains worth the frantic dash to
the store in the middle of the night?
The concern for safety overwhelms
1213 E. Oakton, Arlington Heights, IL theviatorvoice@gmail.com
some students, who worry about the
craziness that ensues inside department
stores.
“I don’t want to go,” says Kaitlyn Peters,
junior, “I don’t want
to die!”
Other Saint Viator
students do not
have the motivational
drive to fight
the coupon fanatics
at midnight, like junior
Maggie McAlpine.
“I don’t want to
get up so early to get
some good deals that are done in one
hour,” she said.
Discounted products flew off the
shelves with such a frenzy of eager consumers,
turning Black Friday into the
busiest shopping day of the year with
a record of $52.4 billion spent. Despite
Black Friday being the most active shopping
spree day of the year, some students
hang back due
to the Thanksgiving
aftermath. “I’m usually
helping to clean,” says
Amanda Meyer, junior,
“So I can’t go.”
Black Friday’s sale
signs tempt many consumers
out of their
beds at the stroke of
midnight to fight in
the cold for the best
deals, or the commercials will send
shoppers running back inside to safely
shop online. Whichever your stance,
Black Friday will forever be the doorbuster
shopping event of the year.
Courtesy of totallycoolpix.com
DECEMBER 2011

16
T Tom Nall
F E A T U R E
A
C
H
E
R
Interview by Ben Paolelli
What in the school has changed in the time you’ve been
here?
TN: In the early days, it’s simple—girls. Technology, that’s
a big thing. I think a lot of it hasn’t. Why we’re here hasn’t.
The purpose in us being here (educating Catholic young
men and women) is still here. A lot of people ask me how
I “teach today, [the students] are all lazy and slackers.” I
haven’t found that to be true at all. I don’t think the nature
of kids has changed at all. The environment has changed,
and that of course has had an effect on the young people.
By and large, I don’t think the kids have changed that much.
That makes it easier because if I remember what it was like
when I was in high school, I think it helps me when dealing
with you kids. One of the comments I use a lot with the kids
when I give them a second chance or a third chance, I’ll ask
them, “Why do you think I’m giving you a second chance?”
and they’ll either say “Because you like me?” Well yeah I do.
But I always tell them “Because there was someone there to
give me a second chance.” So some of the mistakes that kids
make today, we’ve gotta be careful not to make too much
out of those mistakes. Didn’t we make many of those same
mistakes when we were in high school? The nature of kids
hasn’t changed too much.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in
life?
TN: Do the next right thing. I’m no different from you guys.
Whenever I don’t do the next right thing, I get in trouble. As
the hobos say, “Stay on track.”
DECEMBER 2011
FEATURES
You’re known for a specific style of teaching. Where did
that come from?
TN: If you had a videotape of me early in my teaching career,
you would have seen something very different. I was the
traditional teacher [who would] come in with my notes that I
had prepared, stand behind the podium, and lecture from those
notes. And every once in a while the students would lead me
away from my notes and the podium, and we would just wing
it. I’d do that for a couple minutes, and they liked it. It kind
of planted a seed in my mind that they [liked] it better when
I wasn’t behind the podium. And then as a teacher, I gained
experience [and] confidence that I could do more of this. It
came from the kids’ response. When I look at you, I can always
see what’s working and what’s not. It’s in your eyes, [all] over
your face—it’s either a smile or a bored look. With experience,
I gained confidence with what I now call stream of consciousness.
I come in now to class with my idiot sheet, I’ve got my
outline, and this is where I plan to go, but if the students take
me somewhere else, I think that’s great.
Where else have you taught?
TN: [I] started teaching grade school PE at St. Ignatius. I took
my first high school job in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Then I came
back to Chicago, and spent several great years at St. Rita High
School. And then I got out of education for a year and then came
back and I’ve been in the Viator community since 1984, [the first
three years at Sacred Heart of Mary and I came here with the
merger in 1987]. In those years, I was the Athletic Director; I
was the AD at SHHS and here, but once I got out of coaching
(and I coached for 17 years), I wanted to return to what I got
into education for and that was to be in the classroom. I actually
didn’t want to be an administrator, I wanted the classroom.
What is your favorite historical time period?
TN: The late 19th Century America, because it’s got the Civil
War, the Old West, and those are two periods of history I enjoy.
What is the most important lesson you try to teach your
students?
TN: Definitely critical thinking. I honestly believe that there’s
genius in each and every kid that sits in front of me. Psychologists
tell us that we operate at 25% of our capability. So if I can
get you to operate at 80% of your ability, then you become a
genius. [I] don’t know if the students always believe that. [I] try
to give them the confidence that they have genius within them.
They have to find it; they have to bring it out. [You] have a lot
more ideas in your head than you think you do. So I try to ask
a lot of questions in class, and by asking those questions, I’m
bringing out ideas and knowledge that’s in your head. The trick
is trying to get the kid to ask those questions, because you don’t
want me running around with you for the rest of your life. You
can leave freshman year with a greater awareness of how great
you can be, and how to bring that out. Don’t be afraid to express
your creativity.
Saint Viator High School
Photo by Chris Santucci
www.saintviator.com

FEATURES 17
Viatorians livin’ on a prayer upstairs
Living upstairs gives Viatorians closer sense of community
Vinitha Raj
Staff Writer
When most of us think about
the third floor, we rarely think
about the Viatorian brothers
that live there. The house for the Viatorians
was built along with the school
and has been there ever since it opened.
Fr. Corey and Br. Tripamer, who live in
the Viatorian residence, like the sense of
community that living upstairs brings. “I
enjoy living with people who support me
and share the same values as me,” said
Fr. Corey.
“I like sharing meals and the community
prayer,” Br. Tripamer said.
The Viatorians have dinner together
every night. Usually, nuns from the
convent of Sacred Heart of Our Lady of
Guadalupe come to cook lunch and dinner
for the Viatorians. On the weekends,
however, the Viatorians cook for themselves.
There is some competition for
who the best cook is. “It’s hard to say, but
I think the best cook would be Fr. Van
1213 E. Oakton, Arlington Heights, IL theviatorvoice@gmail.com
Wiel. Everybody has their own style of
cooking though,” Br. Lewnard said. Br.
Robertson believes
that the best cook
would have to be
Fr. Egan.
The Viatorians
also pray and reflect
together daily.
It’s not just prayer
and worship that
goes on upstairs,
though. The Viatorians
enjoy watching
movies, sports
and having cookouts
together. Lewnard
said, “We’re
awful busy, but we
watch TV together
and go out to movies.”
Br. Tripamer
said he and Fr. Corey enjoy going to the
movies together.
The Viatorians also enjoy living upstairs
with their dog, Archie. “He is very
friendly but has favorites. He likes Fr.
Van Wiel the best because
he takes him out for walks,”
Lewnard said.
“Archie likes everyone and
has room to run upstairs,”
Br. Robertson said.
Living upstairs has its
advantages and disadvantages.
“I like living upstairs
because the commute is
easy and it’s easier to be a
part of school activities like
sports, clubs, and theater,”
Fr. Cory said. “But sometimes
I feel like I never leave
the school.”
The Viatorian residence is
a place of community and
faith that the Viatorians
share to bring them closer
to each other and to the Saint Viator
school community.
Sharing the joyful hope this Advent
Season of Sharing keeps helping families after two decades
Noelle Jay
Staff Writer
Tis the season to be jolly, and this
is exactly what students, faculty,
and many more Viatorians are
doing to help families in need. The Season
of Sharing has been a tradition here
for 20 years. This project, sponsored by
Campus Ministry, is a great way for students
to get involved and spread Christmas
cheer.
The Season of Sharing program assists
families that are part of the Howard Area
Community Center on the north side of
Chicago. Approximately 96% of the children
enrolled in Rogers Park schools
come from low income families according
to the Howard Area Community
Center website. 21% of all households in
the area have an annual income of under
$15,000. A Viatorian brother worked at
the Community Center for 10 years and
contacted the school to get involved.
The goal of the Howard Area Community
Center is to help low-income individuals
and families. The Center strives
to improve the lives of the people in the
Rogers Park area. Ms. Fons, Director of
Campus Ministry said, “150 families get
help each year, which adds up to about
500 people.”
Ms. Fons also said that this year, 30
families will receive a variety of gifts or
gift cards.
Viator students, their families, staff
and alumni help make this project a success
each year. Ms. Fons indicated that
about 90% of the Viator community is
involved and 99% of homerooms contribute.
Homerooms get involved by
Photo by Jack Lakowske
donating money to buy gift cards for
these families. According to Ms. Fons,
sometimes the gift cards go to the families
that may sign up a little late. She also
said that as much as $2,000 in gift cards
have been given to families who don’t receive
actual gifts. Faculty members without
a homeroom, including Father Egan,
also find ways to donate to this project.
This is Ms. Fons 14 th year involved in the
Season of Sharing. Often the gifts have
been delivered to the families by volunteers
at the Howard Area Community
Center. She said that what she enjoyed
the most was being able to “personally”
deliver the gifts. Fons said, “Some cried
while the little kids jumped for joy,” she
said.
DECEMBER 2011

18
DECEMBER 2011
ENTERTAINMENT
Cinematic competition to be the fairest of them all
Erica Weiszmann
Staff Writer
After the monumental success of
Tim Burton’s remake of the classic
Disney flick “Alice in Wonderland,”
several other copycats of original
Disney movies are surfacing. After all,
if “Alice in Wonderland”
can make over one billion
dollars in the box office,
why wouldn’t more Disney
vintage wonders step
up the edge and try for a
remake? Or in the case of
“Snow White and the Seven
Dwarfs,” two remakes.
Although Universal Studios
and Relativity Media
had several fairy tale stories
to select from, they
were extremely adamant
about making their respective
renditions of “Snow
White” above all other options.
The problem lies in
the fact that one motion
picture production company
is pinned against
the other. They will be
competing at the box office
and in viewers’ hearts
to become labeled as the fairest of the
portrayals of the beloved Disney film.
Is dear old Hollywood sparking
movie-going rivalry? Yes, indeed
it is, but that does not mean a fan
of one of the “Snow White” renditions
cannot go to see the other one
as well. Both will hit theaters in 2012.
Universal Studios will be delivering
“Snow White and the Huntsman,” a depiction
featuring Kristen Stewart, star of
the “Twilight” series. This movie’s cast
includes Stewart as Snow White and
Charlize Theron as The Queen. The
Huntsman, mentioned in the title, is
played by heartthrob Chris Hemsworth,
who not only warns Snow White to flee
from the evilness of The Queen but
also trains her to fight. It does sound
a little darker than the cartoon version
Disney originally made, but there is still
a handsome prince to fawn over in the
picture: English actor Sam Claflin, who
also appeared in Pirates of the “Caribbean:
On Stranger Tides.” So this film
has a good-looking cast of all the classic
characters. Who could be missing?
Not to worry, the dwarfs made famous
from Disney’s version also show up in
this Universal Studios production. Although
eight little men have been cast in
Kristin Stewart and Llly Collins portray as Snow
White in each of their own adaptions of the classic
Disney movie.
Photos courtesy of starplus.com
the movie, rumor has it that by the end
of this dark picture, they will be minimized
to their famous number, seven.
If it is too difficult to see your favorite
dwarf be killed off at some point in this
film, you can rest assured he will probably
not be the only one put in danger
or murdered. The producer of this melancholy
movie, Joe Roth, has informed
the San Diego Comic-Con that he would
equate this film’s battle scenes with
those of “The Lord of the Rings.” Rupert
Sanders, the director of the film, confirms
this statement, adding that he has
made his first feature film an engaging,
large scale, theatrical war production.
Sound a bit too heavy for your liking?
Then I would suggest Relativity Media’s
rendition of “Snow White” in its upcoming
film “Mirror Mirror.” In this production,
it will be the art direction that Burton
captured in “Alice in Wonderland”
that Relativity claims to recapture, as opposed
to the action “Snow White and the
Hunstman” boasts. A full-on fairy tale
story is the goal of this project, headed
by director Tarsem Singh
,who made the film “Immortals”
possible. In
“Mirror Mirror,” Lilly
Collins, the daughter of
British singer Phil Collins,
plays Snow White,
and Oscar-winner Julia
Roberts will take a stab
at the role of the sassy
yet comical Queen. Nathan
Lane is featured as
The Queen’s henchman,
Armie Hammer stars as
Prince Charming, and
Sean Bean is crowned
king in this film. Lesserknown
actors will play
the dwarfs, a bold choice
by Tarsem Singh. Hiring
obscure film stars
is nothing compared to
some of the wardrobe
choices he makes for
pale, dark-haired Snow
White in his film depiction.
In one scene Snow
White will appear with a
swan on her head. This
film will be more humorous and lighthearted
than Universal Studios’ production.
For example, during one scene,
Roberts attempts to seduce the Prince
with a love potion so he will want to marry
her. She mistakes it for a ‘puppy love’
potion and plays fetch with him instead.
In another scene, Roberts humorously
explains to the mirror the only reason
Snow White has such fair skin is because
she never goes out into the sun and is only
eighteen years old and defends the wrinkles
on her own face as merely crinkles.
Whether your movie preference is woeful
or whimsical, see them both. Challenge
the mirror on the wall and determine
for yourself which is the fairest of
them all.
Saint Viator High School
www.saintviator.com

ENTERTAINMENT 19
Alums howling through streets of Chicago
Viator alum band American Wolf shows off their musical talents in city
Sean Imburgia
Staff Writer
American Wolf is an indie/alternative
band hailing from the northwest
suburbs, currently located in
Chicago. I talked to the electronics
and bass player John Imburgia (Class
of ‘09) about the band and its future.
Who is in American Wolf, and
what’s everyone’s position in
the band?
American Wolf is Sal Plascencia: vocals
and rhythm guitar; Chris Banaszak
(’10): keys; Hristo Mintchev:
lead guitar; myself (John): bass and
electronic accompaniment; and
Tim Mack (’11): drums.
Who would you say are the
band’s influences?
I think it would be difficult to specify a
band or genre because we love so many
different things but considering most of
us are jazz guys, we borrow a lot from it.
The hair-raising appeal to horror movies
1213 E. Oakton, Arlington Heights, IL theviatorvoice@gmail.com
Photo provided by Tim Mack ’11
As far as your sound, American
Wolf has a nice blend of atmosphere
and structure. Is this a
product of a lot of time and effort
put into the songs, or is it spontaneous?
It really depends, some songs are thorough
and structurally thought out while
others are completely spontaneous but
they all get equal attention in the studio.
Often times the finished products
are nothing like we originally envisioned
them.
You guys have a new E.P. coming
out. What separates it from your
Annie Lambesis
Staff Writer
We all know the feeling: heart
pounding, palms sweating,
eyes glued to the screen, waiting
for the main character
of the movie to
get murdered. We’ve
all been sitting in that
movie theater chair,
horrified of what is to
come. So if that feeling
is so intense and
terrifying, why do we
keep coming back?
Take the latest
installment of Paranormal
Activity. A film lasting only 84
minutes, it broke records just like its
two predecessors. It earned eight million
dollars at its midnight premiere,
the most money made from a horror
movie at midnight. People actually
paid money and stood in line at midnight
to be scared out of their minds.
Another
terrifyingly
popular
franchise is
Halloween.
It consists
of ten movies,
novels,
and comic
books. It has
been around
Art by Kyong Yoo since the
late seventies, but is still extremely popular.
Michael Myers, the film’s serial killer,
has been murdering for thirty years.
earlier work?
The album definitely has an imprint of
our earlier work but I think (new E.P.)
Tales of Kamanakera takes a different
approach than before. We experimented
with different sounds and explored
a couple of different directions that we
didn’t before, but we took our time and
could not be happier with what we created.
Is an American Wolf live show
more a way to get attention for
your recordings, or is the show in
itself the experience?
We love playing shows and try to bring
a lot of energy to them. Its important to
not only have good music on your record,
but you have to live up to that in
person if you want people to come out
to your shows and have a good time. We
have a few shows coming up.
What’s the best way a fan can
show support for the band?
Spreading the word about us is probably
the best way to help us out. We appreciate
anyone who takes the time to listen
to us and could not be any more grateful.
Any exorcism movie is also a great
example. With The Exorcism of Emily
Rose in 2005, The Last Exorcism in
2010, and The Devil Inside, prepared
to hit theaters in 2012, people have
the plot down pat. The stories have all
been done before, but the viewers don’t
care. Exorcism films still make millions.
So why are people so drawn to thriller
and horror films? The answer is simple.
When we are scared, we’re at our most
raw form of ourselves. We are at our most
vulnerable essence. We love the feeling
of adrenaline moving through our body,
and we love the fact that we don’t know
what’s coming next. We are at the edge
of our chairs, and could be screaming
the very next second. The fear of the unknown
is so intriguing that people can’t
help but come back for more.
DECEMBER 2011

20
ENTERTAINMENT
Critics’ Corner: December
Florence + the machine — Ceremonials
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
DECEMBER 2011
Nick Principi
Staff Writer
What do Spiderman 3, Transformers
3, and Shrek the Third
have in common? I know what
you’re thinking; they’re all pretty terrible.
In other words, these “threepeats”
pale in comparison to the
original and its sequel. In general,
the third installment of a series usually
stretches the story line, forces
impossible changes on well-known
characters, and throws in plot twists
left and right to make the story seem
“new” and “hip.” Have no fear because
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
is a third installment you’ll never forget,
and the story line picks up right where
Modern Warfare 2 left off. After playing
through a few levels, you’ll have to
put your controller down so your sweaty
hands can finish trembling while you
look around and try to convince yourself
that you’re in your family room and not
on an urban battlefield. This campaign
delivers both the action and the story
you’ve been waiting for, yet throws in
The Fame Machine
Produces: Civil Twilight
“Civil Twilight,” an alternative rock, indie rock band is a
power trio with music that has impassioned vocals and stirring,
alt-rock compositions. The up and coming band “Civil
Twilight” is breathtaking,
Fame Fast Facts
Origin: Cape Town, South Africa
Inspired By: American and British artists
Albums: Civil Twilight
Top Singles: “Letters from the Sky,” “Quiet In My Town,”
Music Featured In: “I Am Number Four,” “House, M.D.,”
“The Vampire Diaries,” “One Tree Hill”
For the Fans of: Muse, U2, and Pilot Speed
Art by Anthony Bartell
—Erin Nelson
Libby Donnelly
Entertainment Editor
Florence + the Machine released
their second album, “Ceremonials,”
in October. Compared to
their first album, “Lungs,” “Ceremonial”
held its own. It had some familiar
sounds, but it also had some new
styles. The song “Shake it Out” featured
Florence Welsh’s familiar and incredibly
strong vocals with a fast beat
as she proclaimed, “It’s hard to dance
with a devil on your back, so shake him
off.” Florence + the Machine rocked
New York when they performed “Shake
it Out” on Saturday Night Live. The
band added a Gospel choir to make the
song even more dramatic and ear shattering.
Welsh was even able to cameo
in a couple of shorts. The band puts a
darker spin on the album in the song
“Bedroom Hymns.” The song suggests
it’s a about a bit more than a prayer as
the sings “‘Cause this is body, this is his
love, such selfish prayers and I can’t get
enough.” This album proves that, like
wine, it only gets better with age.
twists you’ll never expect. Whether you
camped out at the midnight release or
you’re just looking to kill a few hours,
this game is well worth your time and
the $60 price tag. Are there any negatives?
An increased heart rate and
blood clots formed by days of not
leaving your couch, perhaps. Also,
you’ll probably dive to the ground
when you hear loud noises or instinctively
want to get underneath something
solid when you see a plane fly
overhead; these are just testaments
to the game’s unbelievable graphics
and hours of incredible game play.
I would highly recommend investing
in Modern Warfare 3. I’ll see you on the
battlefield.
Chicago Events
12/17 B96 JingleBash
12/18 Wilco Concert
12/31 Cage the Elephant
Concert
12/31 Navy Pier New Year’s
Eve Fireworks
1/19 Foreigner Concert
1/27 Rise Against Concert
Saint Viator High School
www.saintviator.com

ENTERTAINMENT 21
Critics’ Corner: December
J.Edgar
Joseph Lorenzini
Staff Writer
John Dillinger’s bank heists, the
kidnap of Lindbergh Jr., WWII,
Korea, Vietnam, Bay of Pigs invasion,
and JFK’s assassination. These most
renowned events of over five decades all
happened under one Director of the FBI,
J. Edgar Hoover.
Director Clint Eastwood explores this
powerful yet hidden man in J. Edgar,
starring Leonardo DiCaprio as Edgar
from 1910’s-1970’s. The film begins
with Edgar hiring authors to write his
Les Misérables Preview
Kim Romano
Staff Writer
Do you hear the people sing? The
characters of “Les Misérables,”
one of the world’s most popular
musicals, will be singing their ways into
the hearts of millions of moviegoers
next year with the release of the highly
anticipated movie. Based on the classic
Victor Hugo novel, the stage musical
“Les Misérables,” affectionately known
by fans as Les Miz, will be making its
big-screen debut in early December
2012. The story is one of action, love,
tragedy, and triumph that is sure to
please even the most skeptical viewers.
A Christmas Story
Photo provided by shokya.com
1213 E. Oakton, Arlington Heights, IL theviatorvoice@gmail.com
memoirs, and his experiences are told
in a series of flashbacks from his point
of view. In these flashbacks, the true
nature and motivations of Edgar are
revealed: his desire for organization, his
belief that all of his actions are justified,
his demand for respect and loyalty for
himself and the FBI, his need for a heroic
public image, and his love for and fear of
his mother, Annie Hoover (Judi Dench).
Edgar’s most disputed aspect was his
alleged closeted homosexuality with
his associate director Clyde Tolson
(Armie Hammer). Eastwood shows
Lexie Ropski
Staff Writer
A
“Christmas
Story” is a classic
movie that has been watched and
quoted for years. Admittedly, it
has flaws including overacting, unrealistic
scenarios, and a random, unorganized
plot line. Nevertheless it has so
many memorable and endearing scenes
that gives it a special place in the hearts
of many Christmas lovers. The unforgettable
Flick also known as the kid with
this controversy not as fit of passion
for Edgar but as an intense struggle
between his feelings and social norms.
In addition to his mother’s states that
she would “rather have a dead son than a
daffodil for a son.”
DiCaprio masterfully includes all of
these behaviors in his performance,
and Eastwood builds a troubled world
around him with contrasted lighting and
a dark setting. This film clearly shows
the strained world of the FBI, and, to
Edgar’s disdain, it shows that there are
no perfect heroes, only flawed activists.
The main character, Jean Valjean, is a
fugitive on the run in 19 th century Paris.
In his quest to evade the strictly lawabiding
Inspector Javert, Valjean’s story
takes a number of unexpected twists
that lead him to join a student-led revolution.
A number of fantastic songs,
including the overwhelmingly powerful
“One Day More,” the heart-wrenching “A
Little Fall of Rain,” and the inspiring “Do
You Hear the People Sing?” facilitate the
plot progression and add to the unforgettable
experience that defines Les Miz.
Directed by “The King’s Speech’s” Tom
Hooper and produced by theater genius
Cameron Mackintosh, “Les Miz” appears
to be off to a good start. The starstudded
cast also provides the flick with
an added boost. Taking on one of the
hardest roles known to male performers,
Hugh Jackman has signed on as Jean
Valjean. Other cast members include
Russell Crowe, Eddie Redmayne, Anne
Hathaway, Helena Bonham Carter, and
Geoffrey Rush. Senior Sara Heunisch
said, “Since I’ve never actually seen
Les Miz on the stage, this is exciting.
I’m immensely excited and curious to
see how they’ll interpret it.” Loyal fans
and new comers can find out when the
revolution invades theaters during next
year’s holiday season.
his tongue stuck on a pole, the famous
line “You’ll shoot your eye out,” the leg
lamp, and the terrifying Santa Clause
are just a few of the many hilarious moments
in this classic movie that stick
with the viewer long after the credits roll.
“A Christmas Story” has a perfect mix
of crazy antics and experiences that we
have all been through. It is the perfect
movie to watch with friends and family
on a cozy holiday night in.
DECEMBER 2011

22
DECEMBER 2011
SPORTS
What’s at stake at state?
Team members recount experience competing for IHSA state championship
Caroline Young
Staff Writer
Before this year, Saint Viator’s
cross country team could only
read about the successes of other
teams at state. This season, they made
their own headlines.
Boys cross country qualified for the
state competition for the first time in
Viator history, finishing 25 th out of 175
teams from regionals through state.
The experience was one they will never
forget. “We had a great time going and
coming back from state,” said junior
Kevin Schreiber, “The race environment
was amazing. There were thousands of
people cheering during the race.”
Junior Ryan Gurreri agreed. “State was
unreal and incredible to be a part of,” he
said.
Ten St. Viator runners competed in
the state competition: sophomores Nick
Brey and Jason Ziolkowski; juniors Kevin
Schreiber, Ryan Gurreri, Tyler Sammons,
Will Beiersdorf, Eric Dziubyk, and Joe
Lorenzini; and seniors Elliot Hilgert and
DJ Horstmann.
The trip down to state didn’t come
easily, however. Months of training and
dedication led up to it. “We had to stick
to what Coach Wayne and Coach Fuja
told us to do and not try to cut corners in
the workouts,” Schreiber said. “We had
to stay focused on our goal of getting to
state but at the same time just take it one
race at a time. The coaches really helped
us with our focus.”
The boys’ experience at state has left
them hungry for more. “It was our goal
to make it to state and the entire experience
is motivating us to get back next
year,” Schreiber said.
The boys’ cross country team wasn’t
the only team with state success this
year. The girls’ team sent two girls down
to state, junior Hanna Winter and sophomore
Meghan Carroll. Winter placed
19 th overall, and Carroll placed 56 th .
“I was really nervous, but at the same
time I was really excited to be there and
run!” Winter said. It wasn’t easy for Winter
to prepare herself for state, though.
“Mentally it took a lot of convincing myself
that I could run with the top girls
in my sectionals which would get me to
state,” Winter said.
The team as a whole also worked hard
all season to get to this point. “It took a
lot of training and eating right all season,”
said Winter.
The two girls didn’t head down to state
alone. The trip also served as bonding
time for the team, which traveled to
state with Winter and Carroll. “We all
went to cheer,” said junior Tina Ronson.
The cross country teams weren’t the
only St. Viator fall sport teams to go to
state in recent years. Teams including
golf and soccer also went to state during
the past few autumns.
“It was a lot of fun,” said junior Luke
DeTrempe on going to state for golf this
year. “It was fun seeing a lot of college
coaches.”
Junior Michael Decker—the last player
still at Viator from the 2009 championship
soccer team—said that winning
state “was one of [his] best high school
memories.”
“The team was a really close group and
bonded together really well,” said Decker.
“It was a ton of fun and there couldn’t
have been a better way to end my freshman
soccer season.”
However, winning a state championship
means higher expectations for following
seasons. “It left a high standard
for us to live up to, especially getting
moved up to 3A,” said Decker, “We wanted
to keep the tradition up.”
Regardless of the sport, a trip to a state
competition is sure to be a trip to remember.
Saint Viator High School
Art by Kyong Yoo
www.saintviator.com

SPORTS 23
Legacy of coach Kirkpatrick
Mark Falotico
Staff Writer
Coach Kirkpatrick or Coach K, as
his players call him, has been at
Viator for 10 exceptional years.
Next year, he will be leaving to become
the Athletic Director at Bishop McNamara
in Kankakee. He will be missed by
the Viator community. When asked how
he would like to be remembered, Coach
K said, “As a coach who tried to get the
best out of his players and tried to make
them better people.” Coach K didn’t just
want wins, but to prepare his players for
their future endeavors.
From Friday pre-game mass to team
dinners, Coach Kirkpatrick has interesting
traditions that his players will miss.
Senior Frank Laterza said he will miss
hearing Coach K say after every Thursday
practice, “Put your head on your pillow
with no doubt about what’s going to
happen tomorrow night.”
He also brought emotion to the team.
Senior Sean Carney remembered one incident
when, “Coach K was so mad at a
Prolonged NBA lockout comes to a close
Anthony Di Silvestro
Sports Editor
The results have been troubling
eager basketball fans for the past
few months and it seemed as if an
agreement was hopeless. However, the
NBA lockout has finally come to a settlement
November 26. In regard to the
upcoming year, the standard 82 game
season has been shortened to a 66 game
season. On Christmas day, the NBA is
set to tip off with three games: Miami
and Dallas, Boston and New York, and
the Los Angeles Lakers playing Chicago.
However, what exactly are the consequences
of the lockout?
Beforehand, 57 percent of the basketball
team revenue was to be given to the
players. In result of the lockout, the
players now receive 51 percent of team
revenue as opposed to previous years.
In addition, the owners have also been
given a stricter salary cap which restricts
1213 E. Oakton, Arlington Heights, IL theviatorvoice@gmail.com
teams that spend a great amount on
player contracts.
Although owners also sought for a 2011-
2012 NBA season, the need for a decision
was even more vital for the players.
Whether locked out or not, owners are
able to make money through merchandise
and other sales. On the other
hand, players are in a much more
difficult position. While some acquire
money elsewhere, the majority
of a basketball player’s salary
is produced during the season. “I
think that the players union got to
the point where they just wanted
to play basketball so they accepted
the pay cut,” said senior Alex Freeman.
The team training camp and free
agency is set to begin simultaneously
on December 9 and games
will start December 25. Overall,
the 149 day lockout has finally
ended after the cancellation of the
Photo by Chris Santucci
Carthage film session that… he couldn’t
keep the laser pointer he was using still
on the screen.”
The players now look back on this,
laugh, and tell other funny stories about
Coach K. Coach K pushed his players,
but at the same time didn’t shy away
from having a good time.
Over the past 10 years, Coach K has
produced some major highlights for Viator
football fans. During his time at Viator,
he had three playoff seasons in 2004,
2005 and 2006 with a record of 23-9 for
those years. In 2006, his team shared
an East Suburban Catholic Conference
title.
When asked what his favorite personal
memory was of his football coaching
career at Viator, Coach K said, “Beating
Carmel during their homecoming
in overtime.” Coach K has had some
outstanding players and some exciting
games over the past ten years. He ends
with a record of 48-48.
Although Coach K is leaving at the end
of this school year, he still has an important
job to do as Dean of Students.
When asked what he will miss the most
about Saint Viator, Kirkpatrick responded,
“The family atmosphere.” As Coach
Kirkpatrick moves on to Bishop McNamara,
students and players will not forget
the memories he had made real.
preseason as well as 16 regular season
games. “The resolution to the lockout
is great for the cities who host the games
and is relieving for the fans who love to
follow basketball,” said senior Jack De-
Wald.
Art by Katie Kerstetter
DECEMBER 2011

24
DECEMBER 2011
SPORTS
Sports at Saint Viator
Girls Basketball
Brian Wilhite
Staff Writer
The girls’ basketball team is starting
off the winter season with a
bang. “We are working very hard,”
junior Samy Stanley said. “We’ve had a
lot of practices and are gearing up for
what looks like a pretty good season.”
The rest of the basketball team seems
to hold the same belief. “Every year is a
different team,” said varsity head coach
Girls basketball team warms up before practices
Photo by Colleen Dempsey
Boys Swimming
Brandon Braun
Staff Writer
As the winter season begins, the
Saint Viator boys swim team has
already
have preparing for their upcoming season.
“They have been with me now three
years so they know what to expect so we
can move forward as a team rather than
teaching them what I’m like,” said Varsity
Swimming Head Coach, Mary Ruffin.
Coach Ruffin started swimming when
she was 10, swam all the way through
high school and college, and was a state
champion for University of Iowa. She
started coaching in high school and
hasn’t stopped since. “To expect nothing
from your athletes that you won’t do
yourself” is what Coach Ruffin considers
the most important role a swim coach
plays on a team.
In addition to preseason workouts,
the swim team jumps out of the pool a
Paul Bjerkness. “We must value the
team aspect and learn to play fluidly
with all five players on the floor.”
Julia Frank, Megan Bailey, Kim and
Martha McAvoy, and Maggie Dougherty
all mark big losses for the team along
with Skala.
Coach Bjerkness, however, brings new
faces to the court along with returning
seniors Katie Gavin, Morgan Hess,
and Captains Colleen Dunne, Lauren
Rooney, and Mallory
Hess. “We are looking for
big contributions from
Lauren (Rooney) in the
post and Mallory (Hess)
around the perimeter,
along with their leadership
on and off the floor,”
senior Annie Campbell
said. Mallory Hess
missed last year with a
knee injury, and is coming
few times a week and participates
in dryland training. “In
the weight room, we focus on
strengthening our core, biceps,
deltoids, and triceps”
said senior Steven Jensen.
Coach Ruffin said, “Practices
can be hard, if you are not in
a good mood, but we try to
make practices challenging
to all strokes and abilities,
but never too hard. Training
and their dedication to each
other are what prepares them
for their meets.” Coach Ruffin
said, “I want them being as dedicated to
the sport as possible to make it a great
program at Viator. Training and their
dedication to each other is what prepares
our team for a meet.”
“I’m excited to reach new goals this
season and excited to get to know the incoming
freshmen,” said Jensen.
back to be an everyday shooting guard.
Coach Bjerkness also adds two new
sophomores to the lineup, Mary Cleary
and Erin Fabbri. “This is the first time
since I have been at Viator that there
have been sophomores on Varsity,” said
Lauren Rooney, the team’s center. “Mary
and Erin will bring a lot of versatility to
our team.”
“One thing we are really looking forward
to this season is the Snowflake
Tournament we are hosting,” said
Rooney. “We won it last year and hope
to win it again this year.” The Snowflake
Tournament will be Christmas Break
December 20-27. Throughout the season
and into the tournament and the
playoffs, Coach Bjerkness has shown a
lot of confidence in his team. “The girls
last year [on varsity] gained a lot of experience
and I know that will pay dividends
as the year goes on.”
Swimmers take on backstroke set during tryouts
Photo by Tristan Blus
The Saint Viator boys swim team’s season
starts in November and goes until
January. “Swimming at Viator has been
excellent in the past, I have great swimmers
this year, and a great opportunity,
I want them to recognize that,” said
Coach Ruffin.
Saint Viator High School
www.saintviator.com